Asperger's Man Could Be Next Susan Boyle

A young singer with Asperger’s syndrome who once spent 7 years without leaving his home is poised to take the British reality TV world by storm, the Independent reports. 21-year-old Scott James’ yet-to-be broadcast audition on the show X Factor features a rave review from Simon Cowell, earning him comparisons to Susan Boyle. “The audience went mental after his performance,” another judge says.

“He just stood there calmly and told us that his singing teacher had been helping him to build his confidence,” the judge continues. “Then he started singing. You will not believe his performance when you see it.” It even earned him a rare backstage visit from Cowell himself, who called James “brilliant.” The singer was encouraged by his parents to record, which led to a mentorship by local producers, public performances, and, finally, X Factor. (More Scott James stories.)