The X Factor Judges’ Houses stage is often one of the most anticipated and thrilling parts of the competition. Contestants face a final test of their talent before moving into the live shows, and for many, it’s a make-or-break moment. In the X Factor UK 2010 season, two of the biggest stars from One Direction—Louis Tomlinson and Liam Payne—had their own unforgettable moments as they faced the scrutiny of the judges and performed for their future careers.

Here’s a look back at all the unforgettable moments from Louis and Liam’s time at Judges’ Houses.

The Judges’ Houses Setting: A High-Pressure Atmosphere

The Judges’ Houses stage is a pivotal point in the X Factor journey. After weeks of auditions, bootcamp, and judges’ deliberations, the remaining contestants get to perform one final time in front of the judges at their luxurious homes. For One Direction’s Louis and Liam, this would be the moment that determined whether they’d make it through to the live shows.

In 2010, X Factor judges Simon Cowell, Cheryl Cole, Dannii Minogue, and Louis Walsh each took their respective categories to a stunning, exotic location. Louis Tomlinson and Liam Payne were both in Simon’s category, and it was Simon’s tough decisions that would ultimately shape their futures.

Liam Payne’s journey to the live shows was filled with emotion. He had already faced rejection in an earlier season of The X Factor, but 2010 was his second chance. At Judges’ Houses, he was put under immense pressure to deliver a flawless performance. However, the pressure started to get to Liam, and he opened up to Simon about how he had struggled with self-doubt and anxiety in the past.

In one of the most emotional moments at Judges’ Houses, Simon Cowell had to reassure Liam, telling him that he had something special and was worthy of the live shows. The support from Simon helped to ease Liam’s nerves, and he delivered a heartwarming performance that solidified his place in the live shows.

The sheer vulnerability and raw emotion Liam expressed in his performance made it clear why Simon believed in him. The heartfelt moment between Liam and Simon was a defining moment in The X Factor 2010, and it was clear that Liam had a huge future ahead of him—regardless of the outcome of the competition.