The Sun has reported that contrary to ITV statements, it was not Emily Nakanda who decided to withdraw from The X Factor competition, but rather, Simon Cowell insisted upon it.

The newspaper claimed that many of the production team wanted Emily to remain on the show but Simon did not feel it would be appropriate.

A source explained: “Cowell told the producers that, although she is only 15 and it’s a sensitive subject, she can’t remain on the show. She is giving out a bad message to other teenagers who watch and may look up to her.”