Laura White has emerged as the clear favourite to win X Factor after thrilling the judges with her rendition of the Alicia Keys hit Falling.
White's performance was so good that Simon Cowell even dropped his Mr Nasty act to tell her she is "something special" and that she has a "fantastic future" in the music industry.
The bookmakers have taken heed of Cowell's words and the odds on a White victory have been cut from 4/1 to 2/1 with many firms, although she can be backed at 11/4 with Sportingbet.
William Hill spokesman Rupert Adams suggested that even at this early stage of the series, it is difficult to envisage any other victor.
"Laura was in a class of her own on Saturday night and unless the other acts show massive improvement, I think we have already seen the winner," he said.
Another of Cheryl Cole's singers Alexandra Burke is 4/1 second favourite at William Hill and she will have the chance to eclipse her rival when the 11 remaining performers tackle Michael Jackson covers this week.
Laura White has emerged as the clear favourite to win X Factor after thrilling the judges with her rendition of the Alicia Keys hit Falling.