Arts & Entertainment

Chris Rene Joins Top 17 on 'The X-Factor'

The Santa Cruz garbage man will perform on the live shows starting next week.

After millions saw perform for his mentor L.A. Reid and superstar Rihanna on it was a waiting game to find out if he would advance to the top 17 as part of the group set to perform live next week.

Rene, a recovering drug addict, has been sober since April 20, 2011 and credits the FOX show with his healthier lifestyle.

“When I was on alcohol and drugs I was a totally different person. ... I looked at this opportunity as a second chance to be the artist I always wanted to be," he said. "It’s like a super-healing thing.”

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Donning a white striped polo and baggy pants, Rene approached Reid to hear his fate.

“You did a really good job," Reid told Rene. "But I’ve seen you better. I watch a performance like yesterday and I scratch my head and say 'Is he really the guy I think he is?' I want to remind you that is a competition and consistency wins.”

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"If I was given this chance, I wouldn’t let anybody down," Rene replied. "I wouldn’t let you down and I wouldn’t let me down. If it’s a 'yes' I would go all the way.”

Then came the verdict:

"How you would hold up and how you would maintain? It's difficult to say at the moment," Reid said. "I’ve gone back and forth but I’ve made my decision. You’re on my team.”

All Rene could do was laugh with elation as he hugged Reid, his mentor for his remaining time on the show. 

After being joined through much of the audition rounds , it was only fitting that she was his first phone call after hearing the good news.

"Oh, my god. Gina, I got a 'yes,'" He told her. "I’m going to the live shows."

Tune into FOX on Tuesday, Oct. 25 to see Rene's first crack in the public-voting round of the competition. 

Did you watch Rene's big moment? Do you agree with Reid's decision? Tell us in the comments!


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