Reality shows often court controversy, and the latest episode of The X Factor has certainly done that. Lucie Jones' shock exit from the singing competition is currently one of the most talked-about topics in the UK - with some fans even claiming they will boycott the show in protest.
But while her supporters vent their frustration, the contestant remains philosophical. "At the end of the day, it's not just a singing contest," said the 18-year-old Welsh songstress. "It's called the X Factor so it's not about having the best voice or being the best singer. I just don't feel that me and Simon ever clicked."
ITV chiefs have confirmed they received around 3,000 complaints following judge Simon Cowell's decision to save twins John and Edward – who he has previously described as his "worst nightmare" – which forced a public vote. Broadcasting watchdog Ofcom has also received 50 complaints and is considering launching an investigation.
Speaking about why he left it to the 1.6 million viewers to decide, Simon said: "I know there will be lots of people who will criticise the decision to let it go to deadlock, but I honestly could not have predicted the way public voting has gone – I never get told the voting figures."
"The twins are good entertainment and there would be criticism either way. I really couldn’t make up my mind". One of Lucie's most loyal supporters, her grandmother 74-year-old Jean Davies, disagrees, and, echoing many of the fans' complaints, says the fiery judge "chickened out."
"I said all along if it came down to Lucie and anyone else he would get rid of her because he is afraid of her. He is afraid of her voice," she told the Mirror.
"He said all along her wanted a male singer to win this year. He is protecting his own acts."
