Leona LewisLeona Lewis has said she doesn’t consider herself an overnight success even after winning the X Factor in 2006.

She told the Sun recently: “I think it’s important for people to know I worked so hard before the show.

“The X Factor didn’t make me. It helped me a lot. I’m grateful I got the opportunity and for all their support but before that I’d done a lot of work demoing and playing smoky pubs and clubs.

“A lot of people give you flak for going on a talent show but I’d worked the circuit and worked so hard for years. Since I was so small it’s always been my dream to sing.”

But that’s not to say she has turned her back on the talent show: “I still love The X Factor. I Sky Plus every episode.

“Maybe I could go back on it as a judge. Not yet, but in a few years.”