
X Factor star Sam Callahan reveals shocking new job and it's worlds away from music
Essex singer Sam appeared on the reality singing series in 2013 and since then has moved into a number of different careers, including a racing car driver.
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But a recent post on his Instagram revealed that the 31-year-old now works as a marksman for his own company which offers pest control and wildlife management in Essex.
Sam modeled some of the gear he wears and uses, including a 12ft/lbs air rifle sub.
"Putting the @jack_pyke gear to the test, with some great shooting out on the farm today. Good quality 'get up' breeds good performance if you ask me," Sam captioned the post where he posed in camouflage gear while holding the large rifle.
The business is described as "professional and ethical pest control and UK wild game management, carried out using precision rifle methods and "ideal for rural properties across Essex."
Along with modelling some of his favourite hunting clothes, Sam also revealed he'd recently partnered with a local butcher to process small game, such as rabbit, pigeon or partridge among others, that he captures through his work.
"Proud to be turning pest control into a real food resource and reducing waste whilst helping landowners manage their properties," Sam wrote on the business' Facebook page.
Sam also runs another business where he offers mobile car retuning around Essex.
But the X Factor alum has not given up on singing entirely and last week performed a set at Bournemouth Pride, where he sang a number of cover songs, including Prince's Purple Rain and Robbie Williams' Rock DJ.
Sam has also worked as a personal trainer and a racing car driver, including behind the wheel of a sporty Porsche, on the GT4 Supercup series.
As if that all wasn't enough, Sam regularly stars in Christmas pantomimes.
Sam Callahan sings You're Beautiful by James Blunt in his X Factor audtion
The singer still has a legion of fans thanks to his X Factor fame, as proven by the fact he's able to knock out calendars of himself topless year after year.
Sam was mentored by Louis Walsh on X Factor, but he didn't quite make it to the final on X Factor with a performance of Iris by the Goo Goo Dolls seeing him bow out of the contest.
Last year, Sam popped the question to girlfriend, Charlie, a veterinary nurse and the pair will soon tie the knot.
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