The X Factor winner: Tate Stevens

$5 MILL + TESTIMONIALS: Tate Stevens struck a blow for the old and unglamorous, winning season two of The X Factor, which comes with what the show ballyhoos as a “$5 million recording contract” with Sony Music. Stevens’ was L.A. Reid’s contestant, so the Epic chief will return fulltime to his day job on a high note. "You deserve this,” said Reid to the 37-year old Missouri roadworker and father of two I'm proud to work with you. I think you represent The X Factor really, really well. So on behalf of Simon and myself and all the judges, congratulations." Britney Spears’ contestant, teenager Carly Rose Sonenclar, came in second, edging Cowell's girl group, Fifth Harmony. Said Simon, "I have a feeling that we're going to be hearing and seeing a lot more of these girls in the future." Group member Camila Cabello was philosophical about losing. "I feel like in this competition we've gained more than $5 million could because we've gained friends for life.” Who needs money when you’ve got friends, right? (12/21a)