'Drunken Mess' Rowetta Satchell

8 months ago 25th Feb 13:00

'The X Factor' contestant Rowetta Satchell was a "drunken mess" throughout the show.

The 43-year-old singer – who appeared on the first series of the ITV talent show in 2004 – admits she was already a binge-drinker when she started the programme, and claims the harsh work schedule and sudden fame it brought her only worsened her problem.

Rowetta said: "I didn't know what 'The X Factor' was going to be. It was the first series and the first show where there was no age limit so I went for it. I was so nervous waiting for my audition, I drank for four hours, so I was a mess. I don't remember anything – all I know is that I really made a fool of myself."

Rowetta's hard-partying ways – honed when she worked as a backing singer for notorious Manchester band The Happy Mondays – were soon noticed by the judges on the show, Simon Cowell, Louis Walsh and Sharon Osbourne.

I don't remember anything – all I know is that I really made a fool of myself

She explained on TV programme 'Rehab', which is aired tonight: "Louis Walsh went to the papers to say that I constantly had a bottle of whisky in my handbag. I did, because they only served beer and wine at the studios and I don't like those drinks.

"Simon Cowell said to me once: 'You're starting to live a rock and roll lifestyle.' I said: 'I can handle it.' I thought I could."

Rowetta – who admits she has not had sex while sober since she was 21 and often used to wake up with strangers unable to recall if they had slept together - reached fourth place in the show, but her drinking only became heavier.

The singer was even scalded by 'The X Factor' producers when she was caught drinking whisky in the audience of the final. Eventually, she was drinking up to a bottle of the strongest spirits most days.

She added: "I went out with Kelly Osbourne then I carried on partying. I came in the next day with blood all over my face, I don't know why.

"I knew I needed to stop when I started getting blackouts. The last year and a half has been bad for ending up in bed with young boys."

Rowetta has been sober since October 25 after receiving help at a clinic as part of Living TV's 'Rehab'.

She said: "I can see my future sober, which I've never done before."

'Rehab' continues on Living TV tonight at 9pm.