Nicole Scherzinger left in tears as singer Marianna Zappi reveals heatbeaking domestic violence past on the X Factor

NICOLE Scherzinger was left in tears as she watched Marianna Zappi audition for the X Factor – after she revealed how she had escaped a violent relationship.

Prior to singing the 34-year-old, who is originally from Italy, told the judges: “I'm here with my best friend.

7

7

"I've been singing for a very long time and my journey came to a stop suddenly as I was in an abusive relationship.

"It was a hard time in my life but I'm able to stand here in front of you guys today and I'm like yes.

“I can't even tell you how grateful I am."

7

7

Speaking to the camera, the brave lady revealed: “Music is the only thing that kept me going.

"After four years I walked out and went to the Woman's Trust. I was very lucky.

"For someone who was caged for so long freedom is such a blessing.

7

"These are tears of happiness."

She then proceeded to sing Bob Marley’s Redemption Song -  which set Nicole off weeping.

Seeing she was upset, Simon reached over the comfort her.

Nicole told her: "I love you to bits. I told myself I wouldn't cry and you made me cry. I think a lot of women can relate to your story."

Meanwhile, her fellow judge Sharon Osbourne hailed the campaign co-ordinator  as an inspiration and said she had the best voice they'd heard so far.

7

7

She said: "The best voice I have heard in the auditions so far. Definitely. An incredible voice you have."

And Simon Cowell gushed: "Beautiful, you meant every word and I listened to every word. You have incredible passion when you sing. It meant something. It was real. You are real. It all feels right."

The overjoyed hopeful received four yeses to send her through to the next round, along with a number of other auditionees from Sunday's show, including 'living doll' Sada Vidoo, Louis Tomlinson lookalike Matt Terry and Russian beauty Irina Dedyuk.

Got a story? email [email protected] or call us direct on 02077824220