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John and Edward Grimes (born 16 October 1991), collectively known as Jedward, are Irish media personalities and singers. They are identical twins who first appeared as John & Edward in the sixth series of The X Factor in 2009, generating a phenomenon of ironic popularity described as "the Jedward paradox".[1] They were the seventh contestant eliminated and were managed by Louis Walsh, who was their mentor during The X Factor.[2][3]

Key Information

Jedward released four studio albums: Planet Jedward (2010), Victory (2011), Young Love (2012), and Voice of a Rebel (2019). Their first two albums went double platinum in Ireland.[4][5] They have released several singles, including "Under Pressure (Ice Ice Baby)", "Bad Behaviour", "Lipstick", with which they represented Ireland at the Eurovision Song Contest 2011 in Düsseldorf, and "Waterline", with which they represented Ireland at the Eurovision Song Contest 2012 in Baku.

Jedward's television work includes starring in the documentary series Jedward: Let Loose (2010), presenting the children's series OMG! Jedward's Dream Factory (2011–2013) and Jedward's Big Adventure (2012–2014), and participating in the reality series Celebrity Big Brother 8 (2011),[6] Celebrity Big Brother 19 (2017), in which they finished as runners-up, and Celebrity Coach Trip 4 (2019). Jedwards's combined net worth was estimated at €6m in September 2013, and they have been ranked as the fifth most financially successful former X Factor UK contestants.[7]

Early and personal life

[edit]

Identical twin brothers John and Edward Grimes were born in Dublin. John and Edward's first school was Scoil Bhríde National School in Rathangan. They then attended King's Hospital School for four years before being moved to the Dublin Institute of Education.

The twins competed in school talent shows during their school years and were inspired by Justin Timberlake, Britney Spears and the Backstreet Boys. They were also members of the Lucan Harriers Athletic Club and Dundrum South Dublin athletics club and have competed in several Irish athletic tournaments.[8]

They briefly worked as games testers for Xbox 360 format holder Microsoft and support football clubs Newcastle United and Celtic.[9]

Career

[edit]

2009–2012: The X Factor and Planet Jedward

[edit]
Jedward performing live on the X Factor Tour, in 2010

In 2008, John and Edward formed a duo and the following year they auditioned in Glasgow as a group for the sixth series of The X Factor, under the name John & Edward.[10][11] Despite being described by judge Simon Cowell as "not very good and incredibly annoying", John & Edward were put through to bootcamp, then made it to judges' houses, where Louis Walsh selected them for the live shows.[12] John & Edward became known for their unpolished but enthusiastic performances,[13] famously including a version of Britney Spears' "Oops!... I Did It Again", during which they reenacted the Titanic monologue.[14] After their departure from The X Factor, Jedward were signed to Modest! Management, however it was later announced that Louis Walsh had reached "an amicable agreement", which allowed him to take the twins on.[15]

From February until April 2010, they performed on the X Factor Live tour, where they were credited with the boost in demand for tickets, that led to an extension in the tour run.[16] Their debut single "Under Pressure (Ice Ice Baby)" was a mashup of "Under Pressure" and "Ice Ice Baby", with Vanilla Ice contributing guest vocals. In March Jedward's Sony contract ended, but the following day Universal Music Ireland signed them on a three-album contract.[17] In April 2010, Jedward began their first solo tour, a 27-date tour of Ireland called the Planet Jedward Tour. Due to popular demand, it was extended with a second 43-date leg in the UK and Ireland. The Irish Independent rated the tour positively, saying that "Jedwardmania is right up there with Beatlemania."[18] Jedward's second single, a cover of the Blink-182 song "All the Small Things", was released in July 2010 and peaked at number 21 on the Irish charts and number 6 on the UK Indie Chart. The same week, Jedward released their debut album Planet Jedward, consisting of cover versions. It which went straight to number one on the Irish Albums Chart and number 17 on the UK Albums Chart.[19][20] In August 2010, Jedward appeared in their own ITV2 documentary, entitled Jedward: Let Loose, a three-part series in which they moved out of their home for ten days.[21]

2011–2012: Victory

[edit]
Jedward performing live on the X Factor Tour, in 2010

On 12 February 2011, Jedward released their third single and Eurovision Song Contest entry "Lipstick", which peaked at number one in Ireland. Jedward successfully qualified from the second Eurovision Song Contest semi-final, eventually finishing in eighth place. After the Eurovision Song Contest, "Lipstick" was released digitally across Europe, where it charted in many countries such as Belgium, Sweden, Germany and most notably Austria where it peaked at number three. The song also peaked at number 8 in the South Korea's international artists' chart.[22] "Lipstick" had featured in a Hyundai advertising campaign in South East Asia.[23] Shortly after the Eurovision Song Contest, on 23 May, Jedward performed in front of an audience of 60,000 people at College Green in Dublin City ahead of a speech by visiting U.S. President Barack Obama.[24] In April 2011, Jedward began their second tour, the Bad Behaviour Tour, with a series of dates across Ireland.[25]

Jedward's next single "Bad Behaviour" was released in July and reached number one in the Irish charts.[26] This was followed two weeks later by their second album Victory, consisting entirely of original tracks. A new version of Planet Jedward was released by the German branch of Universal Music in July, featuring a mix of tracks from Planet Jedward and new songs from Victory.[27] On 31 July, the twins began the first leg of their third tour, The Carnival Tour, with 12 shows across Ireland and Northern Ireland.[28] In September Jedward played their first European tour, with dates in Sweden and Germany,[29] followed by a UK tour.[30] Three days after the first leg finished, Jedward entered the Celebrity Big Brother 8 house. They made it to the final, eventually finishing in third place. The third single from Victory, "Wow Oh Wow" was released in August 2011, with a music video featuring their Celebrity Big Brother housemate Tara Reid. In December, Jedward starred in the pantomime Jedward and the Beanstalk, a musical comedy version of the fairytale Jack and the Beanstalk.

2012–2013: Young Love

[edit]
Jedward performing at Eurovision Song Contest, in 2011

Jedward won the Irish national selection for the Eurovision Song Contest again in 2012, this time with their song "Waterline". In May, Jedward performed "Waterline" at the Eurovision Song Contest 2012 in Baku, Azerbaijan. After qualifying from their semi-final, they eventually came in 19th place in the grand final.[31] "Waterline" was also the lead single on the twins' third album Young Love, released in June. The tracks "Young Love" and "Luminous" were also released as singles. Jedward released the charity single and "unofficial" Irish UEFA Euro 2012 song "Put the Green Cape On", a reworking of "Lipstick".[32] The duo embarked on the European leg of their Victory Tour in January, playing in Austria, Germany, Sweden, Finland and Estonia. This was followed by the Young Love Tour in Ireland in August.[33][34] They also visited Singapore, where the new album had enjoyed popular success.[35]

In June they ran as part of the 2012 Summer Olympics torch relay in Dublin on day 19 of the relay.[36][37] The twins starred in their own TV series Jedward's Weird Wild World on UK TV channel 5*, with John and Edward humorously presenting a selection of popular internet videos.[38] Over the Christmas and New Year period RTÉ broadcast the second series of their show OMG! Jedward's Dream Factory,[39] and the second season of their BBC series Jedward's Big Adventure screened in early 2013.[40] Over the festive season, Jedward starred in their third annual pantomime, Jedward & the Magic Lamp.[41] In January 2013, the twins made a promotional visit to Toronto, Ontario, Canada, appearing twice on MuchMusic's New Music Live show[42] and also made an appearance on Canada AM.[43] While in Toronto, Jedward also filmed a promotional video for the Young Love album track "Happens in the Dark" and previewed a clip from the video on New Music Live.[44] Later in the month, it was announced that Jedward's three-album contract with Universal Music Ireland would not be renewed.[45]

The music video for "Happens in the Dark" was premiered on Much Music in March, with the video having been shot in Toronto earlier in the year.[46] In April the twins filmed a video for the song "What's Your Number?" in New York City.[47] Later in the month they made a promotional visit to Australia, including radio and television appearances.[48] In June, Jedward joined the line-up of A Night for Christy, a gala concert in aid of Aslan frontman Christy Dignam. The twins performed Aslan's song "She's So Beautiful" with the band.[49] In July the twins performed live shows in Cork and Limerick, with a UK live tour scheduled for September.[50][51] In November the twins toured Australia, with performances in Perth, Melbourne and Sydney. While in Australia they also released the music video for Young Love album track "Can't Forget You".[52] The video for "Can't Forget You"[53] was shot at and around El Mirage Lake, in San Bernardino County, Los Angeles, California, United States..

2014–present: Voice of a Rebel and other projects

[edit]

In January 2014, the third series of their CBBC television programme Jedward's Big Adventure was broadcast. Due to its popularity, the series run was doubled to 10 episodes.[54] They also provided weekly style commentary of the contestants in Sweden's Melodifestivalen competition and made a guest performance at the Melodifestivalen Second Chance show in early March.[55] In April 2014, Jedward debuted their new single "Free Spirit" on Australian radio station KIIS 106.5. This was followed by news of the duo's fourth studio album to be released later in the year. The album will contain songs written and produced by Jedward.[56] The duo's follow-up single "Ferocious"[57] was released in November 2014, charting at No.15 on the Irish singles chart.[58] In November 2014 it was announced that John and Edward would join the cast of ITV's new circus reality show Get Your Act Together in 2015.[59]

Between 2014 and 2018, they released several new self-penned singles and directed the accompanying music videos. The twins appeared on The Ray D'arcy Show in February 2017 and confirmed that they were working on their fourth studio album. They signed to Universal Music Singapore in April 2019, and released their fourth studio album, and first with UMSG, Voice of a Rebel[citation needed] on 20 June 2019 across Asia, followed by the rest of the world on 27 June.[60]

Philanthropy

[edit]

Jedward were one of the highest rated charity ambassadors in Ireland for 2011.[61] Jedward are ambassadors for the Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (ISPCC) and have fronted an ISPCC poster campaign.[62] The proceeds of their Euro 2012 charity single "Put the Green Cape On" also went to the ISPCC. From 2010 to 2013 Jedward performed annually at the ChildLine Concert, which benefits the ISPCC's ChildLine service.[63][64] Also in Ireland, Jedward have been involved with the ISPCA's My Dog Ate It campaign,[65] and promote the Concern Worldwide Fast fundraiser.[66] Jedward have also been involved with Comic Relief,[67] Sport Relief[68] and Children in Need,[69] in the UK, as well as giving their time to visit children in hospitals.[70]

Other ventures

[edit]

Advertising

[edit]

In 2009 Jedward were the subject of a Tourism Ireland radio campaign, which made a tongue-in-cheek apology to the UK for Jedward's antics on The X Factor.[71] In 2010, Jedward fronted an advertising campaign for Irish fast food chain Abrakebabra.[72] Jedward have also fronted advertising campaigns for East Midlands Trains,[73] Rowntree's Randoms,[74] Disney Universe[75] and a Travel Supermarket commercial with comedian Omid Djalili. The last was later banned after the UK Advertising Standards Authority ruled that the advert was misleading.[76] In 2011, they fronted an advertising campaign for mobile network 3 Ireland, including their own Jedward-branded mobile phone.[77]

Stage

[edit]

Between 2010 and 2013, Jedward performed in an annual pantomime over the Christmas and New Year period. Based at the Olympia Theatre, Dublin, the pantomimes also starred Linda Martin. John and Edward played themselves and the shows featured Jedward songs. The twins' first show was Cinderella in 2010, where they played the fairy godbrothers.[citation needed] They returned in 2011 with a sell-out season of Jedward and the Beanstalk,[78] and again in 2012 with Jedward and the Magic Lamp.[79] In 2013 their fourth and last pantomime was Jedward in Beauty and the Beast.[80]

Impact

[edit]

Whilst on The X Factor, Jedward's fans included Pixie Lott and Robbie Williams.[81] Taoiseach Brian Cowen also backed the singers,[82] while Leona Lewis said that she worried about them.[83][84] Two leading British political parties, Labour and the Conservatives, each released campaign posters parodying the twins.[85][86] Former Prime Minister Gordon Brown came under fire in November 2009 for describing Jedward as "not very good" and later apologised for doing so.[87][88] Following this, Walsh stated "So Gordon Brown and Simon Cowell both have something in common: neither of them know what the public want." Brown's successor, David Cameron, admitted that he enjoyed watching The X Factor and that Jedward were his favourite act. Cameron also bought a T-shirt with their faces on it.[87][89][90][91] The Irish Independent called Jedward "tone-deaf twins", even though the pair were voted more popular than The Beatles in a teenage poll.[92] Comedian Oliver Callan has parodied them on his RTÉ 2 show Nob Nation.[93] Their 2017 court case on merchandise rights was later the subject of a stage musical starring comedians Kevin McGahern and Tony Cantwell.[94][95]

Discography

[edit]

Studio albums

Filmography

[edit]
Films
Year Title Role
2012 Keith Lemon: The Film Themselves
2015 Sharknado 3: Oh Hell No! Themselves
2016 Sharknado: The 4th Awakens Astro Techs
2017 Sharknado 5: Global Swarming Mick and Cameron
Television
Year Title Role Notes
2009 The X Factor Themselves / Contestant Series 6
2010 Jedward: Let Loose Themselves Television documentary
Never Mind the Buzzcocks Panelists
OMG It's Jedward Themselves Television documentary
2011 Anonymous Themselves Episode: "Seanie and Edwina"
Celebrity Big Brother Themselves / Contestant Series 8
Britain's Got Talent Themselves / Backing Singers Series 5
2011 8 Out of 10 Cats Panelists 2 episodes
2011–12 Eurovision Song Contest Themselves / Contestant 56th and 57th edition
2011–13 OMG! Jedward's Dream Factory Themselves Reality television
2012 Jedward's Weird Wild World Themselves Television documentary
2012–2014 Jedward's Big Adventure Hosts
2013 Dani's Castle Themselves Episode: "Bogmoor Rocks"
2015 Get Your Act Together Themselves / Contestant
2016 Livin' with Lucy Themselves Series 4
2017 Celebrity Big Brother Themselves / Contestant Series 19
Runners-up
Single AF Themselves / Contestant
Jedward's Xmas House Party Hosts
2018 Celebrity 100% Hotter Themselves
2021 The Big Deal Themselves / Judges
2025 Silence Is Golden Themselves Series 1, Episode 3

Awards and nominations

[edit]
Year Award Category Work Result Ref.
2009 Loaded Laftas Awards Funniest Double Act Jedward Nominated [96]
2010 Sony Radio Academy Awards Best Promotion Won [97]
2011 Loaded Laftas Awards Funniest TV Personality Nominated [98]
Marcel Bezençon Award Best song "Lipstick" Won [99]
2012 IFTA Awards Best Children's/Youth Programme OMG! Jedward's Dream Factory Nominated [100]
Bord Gais Energy Social Media Awards Best Online Program Won [101]
2013 IFTA Awards Best Children's/Youth Programme Nominated [102]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
John and Edward Grimes, known professionally as Jedward, are an Irish pop duo and television personalities consisting of identical twin brothers born on 16 October 1991 in , . John, the elder by ten minutes, and rose to international fame in 2009 as contestants on the sixth series of the talent show The X Factor, where their high-energy performances and distinctive spiky hairstyles captivated audiences, leading them to finish in sixth place despite initial criticism from judge . Signed to Walsh's management shortly after, the duo launched their music career with the cover single "Under Pressure (Ice Ice Baby)" featuring , which debuted at number one on the in February 2010 and peaked at number two on the UK Singles Chart. Jedward's debut album, Planet Jedward (2010), achieved double platinum status in Ireland and reached number 17 on the UK Albums Chart, featuring hits like "All the Small Things" and establishing their signature bubblegum pop sound. They followed with Victory (2011), also double platinum in Ireland, which included the single "Popular" and marked their expansion into television presenting with shows like Jedward's Big Adventure. The duo represented Ireland at the Eurovision Song Contest twice: in 2011 with "Lipstick", earning 119 points for an eighth-place finish in the final, and in 2012 with "Waterline", which received 46 points for 19th place overall after qualifying from the semi-final. Subsequent releases included the album Young Love (2012) and Voice of a Rebel (2019), alongside singles like "Free Spirit" (2014), while their career diversified into acting roles in films such as Sharknado 3: Oh Hell No! (2015) and multiple reality television appearances. Beyond music, Jedward have maintained a presence in entertainment through high-profile feuds, such as their 2024 public dispute with former manager during his stint, and ongoing engagement that highlights their unapologetic, fun-loving persona. As of November 2025, the twins continue to perform at events and festivals, including attendance at the in May 2025 where they teased a potential return representing a different country, and collaborations like the October 2025 M&Ms spooky season campaign, celebrating over 15 years in the industry with a focus on live shows and fan interactions, solidifying their status as enduring figures in Irish pop culture.

Personal background

Early life and education

John and Edward Grimes, collectively known as Jedward, are identical twins born prematurely at 28 weeks on October 16, 1991, at the in , . John, the elder by ten minutes, and Edward grew up in the village of Rathangan, . The twins were raised in a supportive environment by their father, John Grimes Sr., a computer , and their mother, Susanna Condron, who worked as a teacher for 26 years before transitioning to manage her sons' careers. They have an older brother, , who is a year their senior and pursued studies in . The family emphasized and resilience, providing a stable home that encouraged the boys' early explorations in performance. From a young age, John and Edward displayed keen interests in music, hair styling, and , often experimenting with and appearances at home. These passions were nurtured despite challenges, including they endured at , which included physical incidents like being hung from a window in bags. The twins channeled their energy into creative outlets, writing original and participating in talent shows, fostering their confidence in entertainment. Their formal education began at Scoil Bhríde National School in Rathangan, where they completed primary schooling. The family later moved to Dublin, and the twins attended King's Hospital School, a prestigious private boarding institution, for four years until age 16. There, they faced intensified bullying but continued to develop their performative skills through school activities. They were subsequently transferred to the Dublin Institute of Education to complete their secondary studies, though they left without formal qualifications to focus on their burgeoning artistic pursuits. Lacking traditional music training, John and Edward became self-taught, relying on online videos, books, and relentless practice to hone songwriting, singing, and styling abilities that would define their entry into the entertainment industry.

Family and relationships

John and Edward Grimes, identical twins born prematurely on 16 October 1991 in , , share a profoundly close bond that has defined much of their personal and professional lives. Their identical physical appearances, vocal tones, and mannerisms often lead to them being perceived as a single unit, with the brothers frequently emphasizing their mutual reliance and synchronized lifestyles in interviews. This twin dynamic extends to decision-making, where they consult each other extensively on personal matters, underscoring their inseparability even into adulthood. The brothers maintain strong ties to their family, including their father, John Grimes Sr., a computer technician, and their older brother, . Their mother, Susanna Condron Grimes, a who also served as their manager, played a pivotal role in their upbringing until her death from cancer in February 2019, an event that deepened their familial closeness. The twins have spoken of drawing strength from these relationships, particularly during personal challenges, while honoring their mother's influence on their values and resilience. In their adult personal lives, John and Edward have kept romantic relationships largely private, with no current partners publicly disclosed; both have been single for several years, focusing instead on platonic friendships that provide emotional support. A notable example is their enduring bond with star , forged through shared experiences of public scrutiny and media attention, which has led to collaborative outings and mutual encouragement in navigating fame's pressures. Recent developments highlight shifts in their lifestyle, including a relocation to in early 2025 to embrace a more vibrant social scene and distance from past rural roots in Rathangan, . Health incidents have also marked this period: Edward underwent emergency appendectomy surgery in May 2021 after experiencing severe , describing it as a life-threatening ordeal from which he recovered fully. In 2025 interviews, John recounted a 2017 cancer scare following a fall during entry, where initial medical concerns led him to fear for his life, though tests later confirmed he was clear of the disease.

Musical career

Rise to fame (2009–2010)

John and Edward Grimes, performing as Jedward, auditioned for the sixth series of in August 2009 at the age of 17. They performed an energetic rendition of ' "," eliciting mixed reactions from the judges; remarked that they "couldn't sing" but highlighted their value and stage presence, while Danni Minogue and praised their charisma and advanced them to bootcamp despite concerns over their vocal abilities. Placed in the groups category, they were mentored by , who rebranded them as Jedward and guided them through the competition. During the live shows, Jedward gained a for their high-energy covers, including "" in week one, "" by in week two, "" by Queen in week three, "" by Ray Parker Jr. in week four, "Under Pressure" by Queen in week five, and "I'm Your Man" by Wham! in week six. Their quirky fashion, synchronized movements, and distinctive spiked hairstyles contributed to viral attention online and among viewers, turning them into a pop culture phenomenon despite of their singing. They finished sixth after landing in the bottom two in week seven and performing Boyzone's "" in the sing-off, where the judges opted to save . Following their elimination, Jedward signed a recording contract with Universal Music Ireland in March 2010, shortly after being dropped by Sony following their initial deal. Their debut single, a mashup of Queen's "Under Pressure" and Vanilla Ice's "Ice Ice Baby" featuring the rapper, was released on 15 February 2010 and debuted at number one on the Irish Singles Chart, holding the position for five weeks. Their debut album, Planet Jedward, arrived on 16 July 2010 in Ireland via Universal Music Ireland, comprising covers like "" and "Young Love," alongside original pop tracks such as "" and "Average Boy." The album debuted at number one on the Irish Albums Chart and was certified double platinum by the (IRMA) for sales exceeding 30,000 units.

Breakthrough albums (2011–2012)

Jedward's second studio album, Victory, was released on 5 August 2011 in Ireland and 15 August 2011 in the United Kingdom. The album, which built on their fame from The X Factor, included the single "Bad Behaviour" released in July 2011 and explored themes of perseverance through upbeat pop tracks emphasizing determination and triumph. It debuted at number one on the Irish Albums Chart and achieved double platinum certification in Ireland for sales exceeding 30,000 copies. In May 2011, Jedward represented at the in with "", a track from . The duo qualified from the Irish national final, Eurosong, where the song was selected via a combination of jury and public votes. Performing in the grand final, they finished eighth overall with 119 points, marking Ireland's best result in the contest since 2000. Jedward's third studio album, Young Love, followed on 22 June 2012, shifting toward more introspective pop sounds centered on relationship narratives from courtship to heartbreak. The record, which reflected a maturing artistic direction with a sleeker production style, featured singles including the title track "Young Love" released in June 2012. It debuted at number one on the Irish Albums Chart and received gold certification in Ireland. For the 2012 Eurovision Song Contest in , Jedward returned to represent with "", an original composition from Young Love written by Nick Jarl and . The song won the Irish national selection, Eurosong 2012, through public and jury voting. In the grand final, it placed 19th with 46 points, highlighting the duo's growing involvement in original songwriting beyond their early cover material.

Later releases (2013–2019)

Following the release of their third album Young Love in 2012, Jedward parted ways with Universal Music Ireland in 2013, marking the end of their major-label phase and leading to a period of reduced musical output focused on live performances and creative independence. During this hiatus from new recordings, the twins emphasized touring to maintain their connection with fans, embarking on the Young Love Tour in July 2013 across multiple cities and an Australian tour from November to December 2013, which highlighted their energetic stage presence and drew dedicated audiences in both regions. Transitioning to an independent era, Jedward released their first self-produced single, "Free Spirit," on 17 May 2014, under their own Planet Jedward label. The track, entirely written and produced by the Grimes twins, debuted at number 31 on the . This was followed later that year by "Ferocious" on 25 October 2014. The track, also self-penned and produced, drew inspiration from fan letters about overcoming personal challenges, emphasizing themes of empowerment and resilience in an EDM-pop style. It achieved modest chart success, peaking at number 15 on the and spending two weeks in the top 40, reflecting sustained support from their core fanbase in Ireland despite limited international promotion. The independent phase continued with "Hologram" in 2016 and further singles including "Oxygen" (2017), "Perfect Wonderland" (2018), "Karma" (2018), and "Golden Years" (2018). The period culminated in the self-released album Voice of a Rebel on June 27, 2019, comprising 22 original tracks entirely written and produced by Jedward, distributed independently via digital platforms. Standout songs like "Dance Dance Dance" and "Soul Crushing" reflected themes of personal growth, rebellion against adversity, and emotional vulnerability, evolving from their earlier pop covers to a more mature, introspective sound rooted in narratives. The album received modest international reception, bolstered by strong loyalty from fans in Ireland and the , where it resonated through streaming and live engagements rather than traditional chart dominance.

Recent projects (2020–present)

In 2020, amid the global COVID-19 pandemic, Jedward released two singles from their album Voice of a Rebel: "Extraordinary" in August and "Teenage Runaway" in October. "Extraordinary" featured a visually striking music video emphasizing self-empowerment and wonder, while "Teenage Runaway" encouraged listeners to embrace freedom and live authentically, themes that resonated during lockdown restrictions. Following these releases, Jedward entered a period of hiatus from new music until late 2024, when they released their first single, "LOVEmas," on December 6—a self-produced festive track aimed at promoting universal love and inclusivity for all during season. The upbeat anthem, their first new music in four years, was distributed via major streaming services and tied into broader celebrations. As of November 2025, the duo continues to focus on live performances and fan interactions.

Other activities

Television and media appearances

Following their elimination from in 2009, Jedward made their first guest appearance on Ireland's The Late Late Show in early 2010, where they discussed their sudden fame and performed for host Brendan O'Connor. They returned to the programme multiple times in subsequent years, including emotional segments in 2020 dedicating a performance of "" to their late mother, and a lively rendition during the 2024 Halloween special. Jedward gained prominence in reality television through their participation in Celebrity Big Brother UK series 8 in 2011, entering the house as a duo and finishing in third place behind winner Paddy Doherty and runner-up . They re-entered the series for its 19th edition in 2017, again competing as one entity, and achieved co-runners-up status alongside , who ultimately won. In 2025, the twins were offered a spot on a potential Celebrity Big Brother: All Stars revival but declined the invitation. Beyond reality competitions, Jedward appeared on ITV's I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! in 2011, navigating the Australian jungle challenges as part of the show's celebrity lineup. They also featured in festive pantomime specials, including a 2012 appearance on RTÉ's Dream Factory Christmas episode, where they hosted and showcased skills from their stage production Jedward & the Magic Lamp. In 2025, they participated in interviews reflecting on their relocation to , sharing insights into urban life and friendships with figures like during a feature in The Standard. In May 2025, Jedward made a surprise appearance at the in , , going undercover in disguise to interact with fans backstage as part of a promotion. Jedward maintain an active digital media presence, regularly engaging fans on Instagram via their @jepicpics account, which boasts over 260,000 followers and features behind-the-scenes content from events and travels. On TikTok, under handles like @planetjedward and @jepictiktok, they post short videos amassing millions of views, often involving fan interactions and lighthearted challenges to foster community. Their 2025 haunted inn challenge at the —Britain's location—was widely covered in media outlets, where the duo endured a marathon for a promotional , testing their nerves while sharing reactions online.

Advertising and endorsements

Jedward's early advertising ventures capitalized on their rapid rise to fame following their 2009 appearance on . In 2010, they fronted a campaign for the Irish fast food chain , promoting the brand through television commercials that highlighted their energetic personas. That same year, the twins starred in a revival advertisement for the carpet freshener Shake 'n' Vac, remixing the original to appeal to a younger audience with their playful delivery. Additionally, they launched the Randoms "Foamy Gnome on the Roam" tour, featuring a giant hot-air balloon promotion that distributed free samples at events, emphasizing their fun-loving image. By 2011, Jedward's endorsement deals expanded internationally, often tying into their music releases under Universal Music. They became the faces of Coco Pops in the UK, signing a reported £180,000 deal to replace the brand's cartoon monkey mascot in promotional activities. The duo also promoted , a , by dressing as iconic characters in launch events and challenge videos, blending their eccentric style with the brand's family-oriented appeal. Their Eurovision entry "" was licensed for a Hyundai advertising campaign in , featuring the song in commercials that boosted the duo's visibility in automotive marketing. These partnerships frequently showcased their youthful, high-energy vibe to attract younger consumers, though none resulted in long-term ambassadorships. In later years, Jedward continued selective commercial engagements focused on Irish markets. A 2023 television and digital campaign for Gas Networks Ireland depicted the twins humorously "breaking up" over gas safety issues, urging viewers to use certified professionals rather than handymen, with the ad running across multiple platforms. This effort contributed to a significant profit increase for their , Jedward Ltd., which reported €163,000 in earnings for the year, attributed to various commercial ventures including advertising. Overall, their endorsements have consistently leveraged their twin dynamic and upbeat persona for lighthearted, promotional content without extending into enduring brand roles.

Stage and live performances

Jedward's live performances are characterized by their high-energy, synchronized routines and frequent costume changes, which evolved from their early hyperactive stage presence on to more polished, fan-engaging shows during their touring years. Their style draws on futuristic aesthetics with bold outfits and physical choreography, emphasizing twin synergy to captivate audiences. This approach, often described as exuberant and interactive, helped transform their initial novelty appeal into enduring live entertainment. Following their X Factor breakthrough, Jedward joined the 2010 X Factor Live Tour across the and from February to April, performing in arenas like the LG Arena in Birmingham, where their sets contributed to a surge in ticket sales due to heightened fan interest. They launched their first headlining outing, the Planet Jedward Tour, in April 2010, starting in , , and extending to venues such as the Pavilion Theatre in November, featuring support acts and tracks from their debut album. By 2011–2012, they undertook arena tours including the Bad Behaviour Tour and Tour, supporting albums like Victory, with notable appearances such as opening for at in in June 2012, where they performed songs like "Waterline" to crowds of over 80,000, fostering energetic fan interactions through call-and-response segments and on-stage enthusiasm. In the holiday seasons, Jedward took on roles in Irish s at Dublin's Olympia Theatre, establishing an annual tradition that showcased their theatrical flair. From 2010 to 2013, they starred in productions like (2010), Jedward and the Beanstalk (2011), and (2013–2014 season), portraying heroic characters with comedic timing, dance numbers, and original song integrations, drawing families and drawing praise for boosting attendance at the historic venue. Their 2013 run, co-starring Eurovision veteran , ran from December 2013 to January 2014, incorporating pop covers and physical comedy to engage younger audiences. Although their pantomime commitments tapered after 2014, these roles highlighted their versatility beyond music, blending live singing with scripted performance. Special events underscored Jedward's international stage presence, particularly their representations of at the . In 2011, they performed "" live in the final, advancing from the semi-final with a vibrant, drum-heavy routine that placed 8th overall. Returning in 2012, they delivered "" in Baku's after qualifying through the semi-final, finishing 19th with an aquatic-themed, high-octane show featuring synchronized movements and elaborate staging. These broadcasts to millions amplified their live reputation for bold visuals and unfiltered energy. Post-relocation to in 2023, Jedward expressed interest in expanding theatrical pursuits, aligning with their 2025 tour schedule that includes a performance at indigo at in November.

Philanthropy and public image

Charitable contributions

Jedward have been active supporters of cancer-related causes, particularly through high-profile fundraisers tied to personal family experiences. In 2021, the twins shaved off their iconic quiffs during a live appearance on RTÉ's The Late Late Show as part of the Irish Cancer Society's Daffodil Day campaign, an event held in memory of their mother, Susanna, who passed away from cancer in 2019; this stunt contributed to raising €2.6 million for cancer research and support services. The duo has long championed children's charities, serving as ambassadors for the Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (ISPCC) since the early stages of their career. In , their advocacy efforts, including a national poster campaign, earned them recognition as one of 's highest-rated charity ambassadors that year. They performed at the annual Cheerios Childline Concert for the ISPCC multiple times between 2010 and 2013, using their platform to raise awareness and funds for services. Additionally, in 2010, Jedward endorsed the Londis "Write Up My Street" initiative, a competition that produced a published anthology benefiting Barnardos , with the twins promoting the event and appearing alongside young contributors. Jedward have also supported organizations, notably participating in the Irish Society for the Prevention of (ISPCA)'s "My Dog Ate It" campaign launched in 2013, which aimed to educate on pet care and responsible ownership; as dog owners themselves, they helped promote the initiative through public appearances. In April 2025, they appeared on BBC's The Hit List quiz show, raising £8,168 for JEPIC, a children's charity, and the organization Mind. Their charitable efforts often intersect with their musical performances, such as at benefit concerts, amplifying awareness for these causes.

Cultural impact and reception

Jedward's public persona has been shaped by their signature gravity-defying spiky hairstyles and highly synchronized, high-energy antics during performances, which quickly established them as a visually striking and eccentric act in the scene. This distinctive style contributed to their portrayal as a "love them or hate them" duo, initially sparking ironic popularity and widespread memes that highlighted their quirky, unfiltered charm as either endearing or over-the-top. Media reception of Jedward has been polarized, with fans lauding their authenticity and unwavering enthusiasm as a refreshing counterpoint to polished pop acts. Critics, however, have been vocal in their disdain; broadcaster publicly feuded with the twins in 2020 and 2021, labeling them "talentless disrespectful clowns" amid spats over various controversies. In 2025, Jedward robustly defended themselves against complaints from housemates, including former Love Island star , who described them as "annoying" due to their disruptive behavior in past appearances, underscoring ongoing tensions in their reality TV legacy. The duo's legacy includes elevating the visibility of Irish pop music on the international stage, particularly through their energetic Eurovision entries that captured global attention despite mixed results. They have inspired subsequent quirky twin acts, such as the French duo Twem, who explicitly modeled their 2010 audition after Jedward's style. Marking a significant 15-year career milestone in 2024, Jedward reflected on their enduring presence without altering their core identity, solidifying their role as resilient figures in entertainment. Jedward's fan community, affectionately known as "Jedheads," remains fiercely loyal, forming a deep-rooted network that supports the twins through dedicated online spaces and events. Post-2020, their engagement has grown notably, shifting toward and personal during the , which broadened their appeal and deepened connections with followers. This evolution has reinforced their positive public image, tying into broader philanthropic efforts that highlight their commitment to social causes.

Works and achievements

Discography

Jedward have released four studio albums, with their debut and sophomore efforts achieving significant commercial success in Ireland. Their also encompasses numerous singles, many of which peaked within the top 10 on the , and one EP. Overall, the duo's recordings have sold over 70,000 copies across their certified albums in Ireland alone, with strongest performance in their home country and the .

Studio albums

Jedward's debut album, Planet Jedward, was released on 26 July 2010 by Absolute Records and peaked at number 1 on the Irish Albums Chart, spending multiple weeks in the top 10; it also reached number 17 on the . The album was certified double in Ireland for sales exceeding 30,000 units. Their second album, , followed on 30 August 2011 via Universal Music Ireland, also debuting at number 1 in Ireland and certified double there for 30,000 copies sold. Young Love, released on 22 June 2012 by Universal, marked their third consecutive number 1 album in Ireland and earned a gold certification for 7,500 units. The duo's fourth and most recent studio album, Voice of a Rebel, was independently released on 27 June 2019 and features 22 tracks, including self-penned songs like "Soul Crushing" and "Teenage Runaway."
TitleAlbum detailsIreland peakUK peakCertifications
Planet JedwardReleased: 26 July 2010
Label: Absolute
1172× Platinum (Ireland)
VictoryReleased: 30 August 2011
Label: Universal
12× Platinum ()
Young LoveReleased: 22 June 2012
Label: Universal
177Gold ()
Voice of a RebelReleased: 27 June 2019
Label: Independent

Singles

Jedward's singles discography highlights their early hits from The X Factor era, with covers like "Under Pressure (Ice Ice Baby)" featuring Vanilla Ice topping the Irish Singles Chart for two weeks in February 2010 and reaching number 2 in the UK. "Lipstick," released in May 2011 as their Eurovision entry, also hit number 1 in Ireland and number 8 in the UK, certified platinum in Ireland. Later releases include "LOVEmas (Radio Edit)," their first single since 2020, issued in December 2024 as a festive track. Other notable singles from their albums, such as "All the Small Things" (2010, peaking at 21 in Ireland) and "Waterline" (2012 Eurovision entry, number 18 in Ireland), contributed to their chart presence primarily in Ireland and the UK.
TitleRelease dateIreland peakUK peakCertifications
"Under Pressure (Ice Ice Baby)" (feat. )5 February 201012
"All the Small Things"23 July 20102168
"Lipstick"23 May 201118Platinum (Ireland)
"Waterline"2 July 201218
"Hologram"14 October 2016
"LOVEmas (Radio Edit)"6 December 2024

EPs and compilations

Jedward released the EP Hologram on 14 October 2016, consisting of a single self-written track that served as an interval performance piece at the Junior Eurovision Song Contest. The duo has no major compilation albums to date.

Filmography and other media

Jedward first gained widespread visibility through their participation in the sixth series of the British talent show The X Factor in 2009, where they auditioned as identical twins John and Edward Grimes and advanced to the live shows, performing songs such as "Ghostbusters" and "Rock DJ" before being eliminated in the semi-finals. Their appearances on the show, broadcast on ITV, featured energetic and unconventional performances that captured public attention. The duo later entered the series twice, first in the eighth series in 2011 on Channel 5, where they reached the final without receiving a single nomination for eviction, and again in the nineteenth series in 2017 on Channel 5, finishing as runners-up. These stints highlighted their charismatic and resilient personas in the house environment. In film, Jedward made cameo appearances as themselves in the comedy Keith Lemon: The Film (2012), directed by David Kendall and released in the UK, and in the horror-comedy Sharknado 3: Oh Hell No! (2015), part of the Syfy franchise, where they featured in a brief scene amid the chaotic plot. They have no major leading roles in feature films to date. They presented the CBBC children's series Jedward's Big Adventure (2012–2014). On digital platforms, Jedward engaged audiences in the 2010s through their official YouTube channel, JEDWARDTV, where they uploaded a series of lighthearted hair tutorial videos, such as demonstrations on achieving their signature spiked hairstyles using products like hair spray, amassing views from fans interested in their iconic look. In 2024, they produced festive TikTok content under the "LOVEmas" banner, releasing short videos promoting holiday cheer, Christmas celebrations, and original upbeat tracks tailored for the season, shared via their @jepictiktok account to engage younger viewers. Other media ventures include podcast guest spots in 2025, such as on What's My Age Again? in June, where they discussed topics like their shared DNA, family health challenges, and perspectives on aging as twins turning 34. They also appeared on Walking The Dog with Emily Dean in August, sharing personal anecdotes during an outdoor walk in . Additionally, in October 2025, Jedward participated in promotional snippets for a haunted inn experience at the UK's , tied to a screening event sponsored by , where they confronted themes and shared reactions to ghostly lore as part of Gen Z horror tolerance research.

Awards and nominations

Jedward have received a modest number of awards and nominations throughout their career, primarily centered on their Eurovision contributions, television appearances, and digital media presence, with an emphasis on Irish industry recognition. Their successes often stem from public voting and fan engagement rather than traditional music industry benchmarks. The twins first gained formal accolades through 's national Eurovision selection process. In 2011, they won Eurosong, the Irish pre-selection contest, with their entry "," securing the opportunity to represent at the in . They repeated this victory in 2012 by winning Eurosong again with "," earning another slot at the contest in . These wins highlighted their strong domestic fanbase and popularity in 's music scene. Internationally, Jedward were honored for their Eurovision performance of "Lipstick" at the 2011 contest, where they placed eighth overall. They received the Artistic Award at the , voted by an international jury of commentators, recognizing the song's artistic merit. Additionally, they won the ESC Radio Award for Best Song in 2011, based on votes from Eurovision radio stations across . In the realm of television and media, Jedward earned a nomination in 2011 for Funniest TV Personality at the Loaded Laftas Awards, a UK-based honor, reflecting their eccentric public personas. On the Irish front, their 2012 TV series OMG! Jedward's Dream Factory led to a win at the Irish Social Media Awards for Best Online Programme, acknowledging their innovative use of digital platforms to engage audiences. Jedward have also been nominated for the Irish Film & Television Academy (IFTA) Awards in 2012 for Best Children's/Youth Programme for OMG! Jedward's Dream Factory, though they did not win. Overall, their accolades total around five wins and several nominations, underscoring their impact in pop culture and fan-driven categories within the Irish entertainment landscape.
YearAwardCategoryResultNotes
2011EurosongIrish Eurovision SelectionWonFor "Lipstick"
2011Marcel Bezençon AwardsArtistic AwardWonFor "Lipstick" at Eurovision
2011ESC Radio AwardsBest SongWonFor "Lipstick"
2011Loaded Laftas AwardsFunniest TV PersonalityNominated-
2012EurosongIrish Eurovision SelectionWonFor "Waterline"
2012Bord Gáis Energy Irish Social Media AwardsBest Online ProgrammeWonFor OMG! Jedward's Dream Factory
2012IFTA AwardsBest Children's/Youth ProgrammeNominatedFor OMG! Jedward's Dream Factory

References

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