In a shock statement it has been announced that X Factor contestant Frankie Cocozza has left the competition. The 19-year-old singer - who has appeared on five live shows - has apparently been asked to leave due to his off-stage antics.
TV regulator Ofcom released an investigation into Frankie's behaviour after hundreds of complaints were made following his on-stage swearing - which was aired live.
His off-stage antics have also been criticised for glamourising alcohol consumption.
In the statement Frankie said: "I’d like to apologise to Gary, my fellow contestants and everyone who has voted for me, but, as of today, I will no longer be in The X Factor. "My life during the show has gone out of control and my behaviour off stage has over-stepped the rules of the competition. "I no longer deserve my place in the show, so I am therefore leaving. I would like to thank everyone who has supported me."
Frankie managed to survive the last live show, despite being booed by the studio audience and receiving little praise from the judges.It seemed he was almost as shocked as viewers when solo singer Johnny Robinson and boyband The Risk were voted off, leaving Frankie in the competition. Just before his live performance, mentor Gary Barlow was seen talking to him about his negative media coverage. The Take That singer-songwriter encouraged the young contestant to slow down his antics and focus on singing. Although it seems that his advice came too late.Gary is yet to comment on the scandal. It is unclear whether another act will be brought back to perform in place of Frankie on the next live show, but X Factor have said an announcement will be made on Wednesday.