Laura White - X factor 2008

X Factor finalists are said to be fuming after it emerged that fellow contestant Laura White has been dating a show exec for MONTHS!

The Sun have exposed Laura and her partner, Mathew Firsht who has strong links with show judges as his company ‘The Applause Store’ organises audiences for the audition rounds and live shows. Matthew also acts as warm up man during the Big Brother live shows, filling the gaps between Davina’s time on stage.

A source told The Sun: “Laura has done her best to keep this a secret as she knows it looks a bit suspect.

“But some people have found out and have been bitching about it.”

The source added: “Mathew is always backstage with them.” He is said to regularly be seen on set wearing headphones, and often chats with the judges backstage.

A pal of the pair revealed: “Mathew and Laura’s family get on really well. They went out for a meal and it was all very jolly. Mathew is obviously besotted by her. He really thinks she’ll be a massive star.”

An X Factor spokeswoman stated: “Laura’s personal relationship with Mathew has no bearing on her place in the competition.”

I personally doubt that Matthew has any say over who wins the show, I don’t think he has that much sway. But as a man who often works backstage on most of the major UK reality TV shows he is bound to have some inside information and tips that may help Laura win. This does seem a tad unfair and if Laura didn’t think there was a problem with them being a couple then surely it wouldn’t have been such a big secret. What do you think? As always leave your comments below!