Former X Factor singer faces murder charge

A former X Factor singer has been charged over the alleged murder of a baby in 2018.

Mitchell Calloway, 37, who was a Top 12 singer on the 2011 talent show, was arrested at a home in Bowraville this morning over the death of a nine-month-old girl in 2018.

The Age reports emergency services were called to a home at Binnaway in the NSW central west but a nine-month-old girl was unresponsive. She was taken to Coonabarabran Hospital but died a short time later.

A week ago police issued a plea for help surrounding the “suspicious” death after new information was given to investigating officers.

Calloway did not apply for bail in Macksville Local Court today which was subsequently refused.

In 2011 he sang mostly country songs on The X Factor, being mentored by Natalie Bassingthwaighte in the Over 25s group. At the time judge Guy Sebastian also criticised his attitude to crew, before later apologising for saying them on air. Calloway finished 7th after losing out to Johnny Ruffo in a season won by Reece Mastin.

Calloway is due to next appear for mention on June 13 at Coffs Harbour.