X Factor star unrecognisable as she hangs out with A-list star Russell Crowe

SHE rose to fame on the X Factor in 2011 as a shy young singer, who sang a mesmerising version of Your Song.

These days Janet Devlin is a far cry from the barefoot 16-year-old with curly red hair – and is now performing alongside acting royalty.

The 28-year-old has been in Australia after being handpicked by non-other than Russell Crowe to help open a series of his concerts.

And the pair seem to have really bonded as they posed up for a snap together.

Janet told her followers that they had met through Ed Sheeran and the rest is history.

She explained: “There are many ways to experience Australia for the first time but I’m pretty sure this was the best way by far.

“Thank you @russellcrowe for inviting me to open your shows and for opening my eyes to such a beautiful country with such wonderful people!

“Not to mention your generosity! What a whirlwind of an experience.

“Yes, I had to get a photo because I wont even believe it myself when I wake up tomorrow. “

The singer added: “(Also, thank you to @teddysphotos for accidentally making this happen! Haha).”

In the ten years since appearing on the show, Janet has not just undergone a physical transformation going from redhead to blonde, but has also been on a journey in herself.

She has become a mental health advocate and TikTok favourite thanks to her no-holds-barred recordings.

Janet has previously revealed she went on to struggle with alcohol addiction and depression after appearing on the show.

She now says it was ultimately finding a way to laugh about her darkest moments that helped her get sober.