Ryan Lawrie, a Scottish singer-songwriter who gained publicity from the 13th series of The X Factor, has undergone a striking transformation in the past ten years. Although he did not secure a finalist position in the singing competition that was ultimately won by Matt Terry, his time there was described by Lawrie as "life-changing." He has transitioned into a successful music career, achieving impressive milestones including five US Billboard number ones and over 100 iTunes number ones globally, also collaborating with major artists such as BTS and Steve Aoki.

Lawrie recently took to social media to reflect on his journey, especially highlighting the pivotal year of 2016 when he performed at Wembley Stadium for 80,000 people. This memory serves as a testament to his growth and evolution as an artist, capturing a significant moment that he considers a major turning point in his life and career. Through his posts and updates, Lawrie demonstrates how reality TV can lead to long-term careers in entertainment, if leveraged appropriately.

This transformation also invites discussions on the themes of fame, personal growth, and the impact of reality television on artists' lives. While many contestants find it hard to maintain their momentum post-show, Lawrie's success in songwriting and collaborations showcases that it's possible to build a sustainable career even after an early setback on a popular platform.