X Factor 2026 Live Shows Begin With Marco Mengoni and New X Pass Twist

The 2026 edition of X Factor officially entered its live show phase on Thursday, October 22, airing on Sky Uno and NOW. Twelve contestants, mentored by judges Paola Iezzi, Jake La Furia, Francesco Gabbani, and newcomer Irama, stepped onto the stage to face both their coaches and the home audience for the very first time. The opening night kicked off with a special performance by pop star Marco Mengoni, who first gained fame on the same talent show back in 2009 and returned to perform his new single.

The twelve remaining hopefuls are competing across two cover heats designed to test their vocal abilities and stage presence under pressure. At the end of each heat, the lowest-ranking artist faces a sing-off decided by the four judges, requiring at least three concurring votes to avoid elimination. If a tie occurs, a flash televote determines the final verdict, leaving contestants to navigate the immediate scrutiny of live television.

A major addition to this season is the introduction of the X Pass, a special feature managed by host Giorgia that allows two previously eliminated contestants from the Last Call round to re-enter the competition. Giorgia selected two artists to perform during the opening live show, putting their fate in the hands of the audience through a quick flash vote. The winning artist will ultimately join a team that loses a member during the evening's performances, creating an unusual dynamic where a judge inherits a contestant they did not originally choose.

Among the standout performers of the night was the young rock band Mad-Dog, mentored by Paola Iezzi. Comprising Renato Marchisio, Davide Dore, Jacopo Sale, and Luca Pintus, the group opened the show with a high-energy rendition of Kasabian's 'Club Foot.' Dressed in early 2000s-inspired attire, the band earned praise from the panel for their precision and stage presence, successfully passing the first round without facing the threat of elimination.

The diverse lineup of contestants also features street musician Alex Fontana, former boxer Patrizia Napolano, and several singer-songwriters from across the country. As the competition progresses, the judges and viewers alike will observe whether early favorites can maintain their momentum or if the pressures of live television will alter the initial impressions formed during the audition process.

With the live broadcasts now underway, the remaining artists face the challenge of proving their longevity beyond the television screen. As Marco Mengoni's career demonstrates, the talent show serves as a stepping stone, but an artist's ultimate success depends on their ability to evolve long after the studio cameras are turned off.