Published Friday, 12 October 2012
Rylan Clark singing Gold by Spandau Ballet. (© Rex Features)
Rylan's rendition of Spandau Ballet's Gold during the first live show of this year's series wasn't Gary's cup of tea. And when one of his acts then lost out to the Essex lad in Deadlock, all hell broke loose!
"Get that camera out of my face," the usually cool, calm and collected Mr Barlow growled, as he stomped his way backstage on Sunday night.
And an emotional Rylan was obviously upset as he too sought refuge away from the cameras, despite having retained his place in the show over Carolynne Poole.
I reckon by the end of the series, me and Gary will be bessie mates. Move over Robbie - I'm taking your place!
Rylan Clark
"I was gutted to be in the bottom two - although I was expecting it," Rylan has since reflected.
"It was horrible being in it with Carolynne, as she was one of my best mates in the show. We were always hanging out together, so I didn't want her to go.
"She has texted me since to tell me that she loves me and to offer her support. That's the sort of selfless, gracious person she is. I have told her to get on that plane to Nashville as I think she could become a big country star!"
And the flamboyant singer says he's now been working harder than ever ahead of this weekend's Love and Heartbreak themed show - to do his best for his fans and try to win over Gary.
"I have absolute respect for Gary as a mentor and as a musician. I don't want there to be a war between us," Rylan said.
"I'm really focusing on my singing. I want my vocals to be as good as possible.
"I'm also dying to see what I'll be wearing. I'm hoping my outfit will involve studs and sequins. You know me - I'm like as magpie when it comes to shiny stuff."