X Factor's Spencer Sutherland is first act to be eliminated as new format reveals viewers' favourite

Dermot O'Leary, Spencer Sutherland and Louis Walsh on The X Factor, 28 October 2017 (Image credit: Dymond/Thames/Syco/REX/Shutterstock)

The show has had a big shake up when it comes to voting

The X Factor has seen the first act get sent home this series as part of a big shake-up of the voting system.

Spencer Sutherland was the unlucky contestant eliminated from the competition on Saturday night’s debut live show, which saw the viewers alone choose who should go rather than the previous format of the judges making the final decision.

Whilst there used to be a sing-off between the two acts with the lowest amount of the public vote, the programme now sends the star who proves least popular with fans home straight away without consulting the panel.

Spencer - who was mentored by Louis Walsh as part of the Boys category - was obviously disappointed to be axed but spoke of how grateful he was for being given a chance.

The American-born star explained: "I just want to take the opportunity to thank everyone so much, and the UK for welcoming me with open arms."

As part of the change to the voting system, host Dermot O’Leary also revealed which act had earned the most votes from viewers during the show.

It turned out to be Grace Davies, one of Sharon Osbourne’s acts in the Girls category who is one of the favourites to win.

The 20-year-old was thrilled to hear the news and will now get to compete against the most popular act from Sunday night’s show for the chance to win a music workshop with singer Pink in New York.

After Saturday saw the Boys and Girls take to the stage, Sunday’s programme will feature the Overs and Groups categories and another act will be sent home from the competition.

It looks like judge Simon Cowell - who mentors the Groups - will also hopefully return after being forced to miss the opening live show following a fall at home.

See the action unfold when The X Factor airs at 7pm on Sunday 29 October on ITV.