One True Voice singer through to 'X Factor' finals

Matt Johnson, former singer with the flopped reality TV band One True Voice, has made it through to the final round of Simon Cowell's X Factor.

The 18-year-old was part of the group put together by Pete Waterman in 2002's Popstars: The Rivals, who split six months later amid negative press and a lack of chart success.

His appearance in the new reality show has already sparked accusations of foul play on the parts of Cowell and fellow judge Louis Walsh.

Walsh, also a judge on Popstars: The Rivals, was so "impressed" with Matt that he helped him land a solo record deal with Jive Records after One True Voice split. Simon Cowell, of course, is head of A&R at Jive Records.

"Matt is definitely through to the finals but it’s supposed to be a big secret," a source told The Sun today. "He turned up at one audition in the Midlands — even though he’s from the North West. Presumably he had to be seen to audition with everyone else.

"And surprise, surprise, he’s made it through to the next stage. Eventually he will face the public vote. But he’s certainly been given preferential treatment."

The X Factor begins this Autumn on ITV.