‘The X Factor Australia’ Winner is Marlisa Punzalan; Dean Ray Finishes as Runner-Up [VIDEOS]

“The X Factor Australia” has crowned its youngest contestant the winner. Marlisa Punzalan knocked down judges’ favourite Dean Ray in claiming the coveted title on Monday night.

Top 13

The grand finale started out strong with all Top 13 acts opening the show. Trill, Younger Than Yesterday, Adrien Nookadu, XOX, Sydnee Carter, Rochelle Pitt, Tee, Jason Heerah, Caitlyn Shadbolt and Reigan Derry joined the Top 3, Brothers 3, Dean and Marlisa, in performing Katy Perry’s “Dark Horse.”

It was the perfect number to showcase the strengths of the contestants. However, as there were over 13 individuals clamouring to get airtime, viewers were given almost just a glimpse of the artists, some of whom have been forgotten already.

Olly Murs, Guy Sebastian, Jessica Mauboy and Taylor Swift

Sunday night’s special guests have come back to perform solo this time. Olly worked up the crowd with his hit “Wrapped Up,” Jessica got the audience singing with her with “Can I Get a Moment?” while Guy took made everyone scream with “Mama Ain’t Proud.”

However, the biggest draw of the night, apart from the winner announcement, was probably Taylor Swift’s performance. The international superstar commanded presence on stage. Singing her massive hit “Shake It Off,” the 24-year-old American songstress got everyone on their feet, acknowledging the judges’ presence with a high five from each of them.

“Never assuming that you are entitled to anything is very important with this,” was Taylor’s advised to the contestants. “Treating people well, not just people you think could help you, but just generally treating everybody well is a really good thing to do.”

Top 2 Announcement

When host Luke Jacobs announced Marlisa and Dean safe, some viewers weren’t surprised that Brothers 3 did not make it to the Top 2. The country boys originally didn’t make it to the show, but they were voted back as a wildcard. After Week 4, they were the only group left in mentor Dannii Minogue’s care. But while they have never suffered being in the Bottom 2, their reviews from the other judges – Ronan Keating, Redfoo and Natalie Bassingthwaighte – continued to dwindle week after week.

However, with their popularity (they were once announced as the act with the most number of votes), it was feared that they would take home the crown. It didn’t happen, though.

“It’s been an amazing ride for these guys,” Dannii said of the boys. “They’re true Aussie, country gentlemen.”

The brothers didn’t appear to be anywhere near sad of their loss. If anything, they looked as upbeat as ever, with Tayzin even thanking everyone, including all the judges, in his unique, wacky way.

Marlisa the Winner, Dean the Runner-Up

As the two acts left in the show vying for the ultimate title of “X Factor Australia,” 22-year-old Dean and 15-year-old Marlisa performed a duet, singing together “Beneath Your Beautiful.” It was like a sing-off, but they weren’t judged anymore.

After Taylor’s performance, they entered the stage once more with their respective mentors. As Natalie could be heard saying, her outfit matched with Dean’s, which they perhaps have done unintentionally. They weren’t the only ones in matching attire. Marlisa and Ronan also looked like they have coordinated their black-and-white outfit for a father-daughter dance.

“This has been the tightest result in X Factor history,” Luke. “There is literally a 0.01% difference in the votes. It is so close.”

Even before her name was announced, Marlisa showed her anxiety through her expressive face. Dean remained as cool as ever. He only showed emotion when Marlisa was declared winner, and what a jubilant expression that was! He twirled his younger competition around while Marlisa was still in shock from her win.

“I’m so proud of her. She’s been unbelievable. What a superstar! So deserving of the title. It has only taken me five years!” Ronan said, referring to his time in the show. The Boyzone star is the longest serving judge in the show, having taken a seat at the panel from 2010.

“I just can’t believe it. I feel like I’m floating on a cloud right now. Thank you so much, Australia! I couldn’t have done it without you,” the grateful new “X Factor” winner said.

As customary of the winners, Marlisa performed her debut single “Stand By You” while Ronan, Natalie, Redfoo, Dannii and Dean celebrated on the far side of the stage. Afterwards, the rest of the Top 13 joined them on stage.

Marlisa is the youngest winner in the show’s history at just 15 years old. She entered the competition when she was just 14.