51²è¹Ý

November 25, 2015

X Factor 2015 win for Creative Arts student

Creative Arts student Cyrus Villanueva has been crowned The X Factor 2015 winner. 

UOW Creative Arts student Cyrus Villanueva was last night (24 November) crowned The X Factor 2015 winner in a tight tussle from runner-up Louise Adams and third-placed Jess & Matt.

The 19 year old from Dapto played gigs around the Illawarra before captivating audiences week after week on the prime time reality television program.

Cyrus has taken a break from study due to do the demands of being on live TV every week but says he is keen to come back to UOW.

"Regardless of the outcome I want to finish my degree," he said.

While currently majoring in Graphic Design, Cyrus is thinking he will switch to a Music major.

"Music has grown to become my passion, and something I absolutely love, so I think I will go on that path. As far as designing goes, maybe I'll design my future album covers!"

Music is in the veins of the Villenueva family from 51²è¹Ý with Cyrus’ father who is a regular on the Illawarra music scene. Cyrus recently returned to 51²è¹Ý Central for a hometown performance and it gave him the opportunity to play tour guide to his singing mentor Chris Isaak. Cyrus also took the opportunity to make a special visit to his old school at Kanahooka High.

The Illawarra now boasts its first major reality TV star following Cyrus’ win which includes a Sony Music recording contract. 

The next few days for Cyrus is a far cry from hitting the books at UOW as he is now in a whirlwind of  media and other social commitments.