Jedward 'as good as Kylie and Madonna', says Walsh

‘X Factor’ judge Louis Walsh thinks John and Edward are as good as Madonna.

The Irishman – who mentors the spiky-haired twin singers – says he believes they could win the series because they are great entertainers like the ‘Celebration’ singer and Australian pop star Kylie Minogue.

He said: “I think the twins can win it. They’re not the best singers or dancers but they’re brilliant entertainers. Who cares whether they’re good singers or not? Madonna and Kylie aren’t the best singers either but, like the twins, they are great entertainers.”

The 57-year-old judge – whose other two acts, Kandy Rain and Miss Frank, have been voted out of the talent show – believes the boys are still in the competition because they are popular with children.

He explained to the Daily Mirror newspaper: “Every kid in every family is rooting for them. The kids like them and their parents don’t and they can rebel against them by voting for them.

“Viewers just want to see them. It’s the act they are tuning in to see. Without them the show would be boring.

“I am genuinely glad I picked them. I knew it was a gamble, but it has paid off. They work harder than anyone. They are living their dream and people love them. They are the best part of the show.”

Meanwhile, the twins’ participation in the show has been branded a “set-up” by angry fans, after they auditioned twice in two cities.

One fan said: “It says on the ‘X Factor’ that John and Edward auditioned at Glasgow, but clearly in one video you can see they are auditioning in London. It’s a set up.”

However, ‘X Factor’ bosses have denied any favouritism.

A spokesperson said: “They did a pre-audition in London then were asked to audition for the judges. They were given the choice of Glasgow or London and couldn’t make London so they went to Glasgow.”

The twins are set to perform Ray Parker Jr’s theme from the film ‘Ghostbusters’ on Saturday’s movie-themed show.