Gabrielle Carrington, a 29-year-old former finalist on The X Factor, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of social media influencer Klaudia Zakrzewska. The incident occurred outside the Inca nightclub on Argyll Street in Soho, London, at approximately 4:30 a.m. on April 19, when Carrington allegedly ran over Zakrzewska with a car. Zakrzewska, who was also a social media influencer known as Klaudiaglam, died on April 25 from injuries sustained in the incident.

Carrington, from Manchester, was initially charged with attempted murder, but the charge was amended to murder following Zakrzewska’s death. She also faces a charge of causing grievous bodily harm with intent to security guard Anoush Chyche. Additionally, a charge of drink-driving was brought against her, though she was not required to enter a plea on this count at the recent hearing.

Carrington appeared via videolink from Bronzefield prison at the Old Bailey in London. Without legal representation, she chose to represent herself during the plea hearing. When questioned by Judge Sarah Whitehouse KC, she expressed that while she did not want to represent herself “for the foreseeable,” she was willing to enter her plea despite the absence of a barrister. The judge confirmed that Carrington would appear in person at future hearings.

Carrington’s trial is scheduled to begin on January 5, 2027, with further pre-trial hearings set for August 11 and October 9. The court ordered that she attend these hearings in person.

Carrington is known for her career as a social media influencer and her participation in The X Factor live finals in 2013 as part of the trio Miss Dynamix. She has a significant online following, reportedly over 365,000 followers on Instagram under the name RIELLEUK. According to court descriptions, she frequently travels to the United Arab Emirates.

The footage related to the incident, which has circulated online, reportedly shows a woman entering a black vehicle before it rapidly moves forward and strikes Zakrzewska, causing her to go under the car.

The investigation and upcoming trial will address the circumstances of the incident, with the court considering the evidence and testimonies presented during the proceedings.