Actors union Equity has accused ITV’s X Factor of “cheap exploitation”.

The union object to the show not paying their competitors and are pushing for all finalists to be given a wage and have legal status as workers. They have urged ITV and Talkback Thames to follow the example of the BBC who pay their finalists on show like ‘I’d Do Anything.’

Unsurprisingly X Factor producer Talkback Thames has refuted the union’s claims, saying Equity rates “do not apply”.

The production company claims that its shows are talent competitions and therefore “not employment in their own right”.

“Contestants choose to enter to compete for a substantial prize,” its spokeswoman continued.

“The shows also give ordinary people an opportunity to showcase their talents and potentially transform their lives.”