Wagner Fiuza-Carrilho, the flamboyant singer who captured hearts on ITV’s The X Factor 15 years ago, has revealed a remarkable transformation since his return to the UK. Now 69, Wagner stunned fans by showcasing a new, ripped physique and a striking grey beard during a recent interview on FUBAR Radio.
Wagner’s journey back to the UK follows an ambitious but ultimately unsuccessful attempt to establish a hair transplant surgery franchise in Brazil. “I went to Brazil for 22 months to open a Vinci hair clinic franchise,” Wagner explained to host Andrew White. “But I couldn’t stand living there. The plan was to run it from here, but it didn’t work out—I had to be there full-time, so I sold it back to the original owner, a good friend.”
The singer first shot to fame in 2010 as a standout contestant on the seventh series of The X Factor, making it to the quarter-finals with his unique mash-ups of classic hits like “She Bangs” and “Love Shack.” Known for his flamboyant style and powerful performances, Wagner finished sixth after losing a sing-off to Mary Byrne.
Aside from his music career, Wagner has developed a passion for bodybuilding and karate, hitting the gym nearly every day. His recent interview also highlighted his decision to grow a full grey beard—a clever way to avoid constant recognition from fans while still maintaining his charismatic persona. “It gives me a break because it takes people longer to spot me,” he joked. “When people ask if I’m Wagner, I tell them, ‘I’m Wagner’s dad.’”
Reflecting on the decline of The X Factor, Wagner pointed to changes in viewing habits and the music industry. “Everyone’s on their phones scrolling, and nobody pays attention to TV anymore,” he said. “Plus, people stopped buying records, so there was no longer a substantial prize for the winner. That’s why the show ended.”
Despite his setbacks, Wagner remains upbeat and active in the entertainment world. He and his partner Lydia, whom he met shortly after The X Factor, have maintained a strong relationship despite a 36-year age gap. He also credits Lydia with encouraging him to start creating personalised video messages for fans—an early foray into what became a booming market on platforms like Cameo.
Wagner stays connected with many former X Factor contestants, including Sam Bailey and Rebecca Ferguson, and keeps mementos from his career, such as sunglasses gifted by One Direction’s Zayn Malik.
From his dramatic hair transplant surgery business venture to his enduring presence in music and fitness, Wagner’s story is one of resilience and reinvention—proof that even after decades in the spotlight, there are always new chapters to be written.
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