Ofcom to probe X-factor mum broadcast
Ofcom has announced that it is to investigate an episode of X-Factor in which a mother performed a rendition of Lady Gaga in front of her two teenage children.
Some 35 viewers complained that the ordeal could traumatise the children, aged 14 and 16, and leave them exposed to abuse at school.
Belting out ‘Edge of Glory’ to a squirming audience Alison Brunton was widely ridiculed but went ahead after both children gave their consent to host Dermot O’Leary.
Reactions to the track ranged from scathing to sympathetic with judge Mel B said: "That should never have happened." Her colleague Louis Walsh adding: "It was a bit like somebody drunk at a wedding,"
Tulisa Contostavlos however had some warmer words, saying: "You're an absolute legend for getting up and doing it."
An ITV spokesperson said: "The X Factor does not include child contestants but takes the welfare of any children featured in the show very seriously. It is a well-established format and contestants regularly bring along their family to support them, as Alison did.”