Here's what X Factor winner Joe McElderry is up to these days

From Digital Spy

Former X Factor winner Joe McElderry made a surprise appearance on ITV's Ninja Warrior UK today (May 4).

Joe won the sixth series of the singing show a decade ago back in 2009, going on to sell over 2 million records as a solo singer in the process.

But now, he's looking to conquer the elusive Mount Midoriyama.

Stepping up with a fresh blonde-haired look, Joe attempted the famously hard assault course, but unfortunately, he didn't make it very far tonight.

Maybe he's not destined for an acrobatic career after all? Back to the music tour it is then, Joe.

Fans tweeting along certainly had a lot to say about seeing the blast from the past pop back up on our screens.

But the singer-songwriter still has some loyal fans out there, with several users responding: "He'll always be our winner", "Gracious dive though", "Well done Joe for trying, I couldn't have done it" and "Pretty good for a first run, another couple of goes and he would have nailed it I'm sure!"

Joe wasn't the only surprise on tonight's show, though.

Dancing on Ice professional skater Sylvain Longchambon gave the Ninja Warrior UK course a go, too.

Elsewhere, Joe previously discussed what it was like meeting the late musical icon George Michael whilst performing on The X Factor.

"Getting to spend time with him backstage and seeing how much of a humble man he was – especially considering his success. I mean, what a down-to-earth guy," he reflected.

"I remember he really wanted to help make our duet one of the biggest moments for me. And it was an incredible moment."

Ninja Warrior UK airs on ITV.

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