Cowell slammed for 'X Factor' "trannies" comment

Simon Cowell has been blasted by the father of X Factor contestant Annastasia Baker.

After Baker's initial audition for the show, which saw her perform 'Proud Mary', Cowell told the 21-year-old that he had "seen trannies do better versions” of the song. The single mum later progressed to Boot Camp after a rendition of Adele's 'Let Me Feel My Love'.

Ian Baker, an airport worker, told The Mirror: "Simon used some harsh words. I don't think what was said was fair.

"Annastasia spent a lot of money on her image and had poured time and effort into it. No father wants to hear his daughter being called a tranny, ­especially after everything she has been through with the show in the past.

"I just want Annastasia to go the whole way this time and fulfil her dreams. She’s wanted this for so long and she ­deserves it."

Annastasia previously appeared on the show two years ago, but was sent home at the Judges' Houses stage by Cheryl Cole.

The X Factor continues next Saturday at 7.30pm on ITV1.