Cowell creates 'fake' 'X Factor' groups?

Simon Cowell has been accused of creating "fake" bands composed of failed solo entrants to compete in X Factor.

A report suggests the show creator and judge has been "fixing" things by steering the made-up groups into the final stage.

According to The People he has created one male and one female band - possibly called Hope and Aspire respectively.

An insider told the newspaper: "It's no secret that Simon Cowell wants a band to win this year - even if they have to fix it. Putting through made-up bands when other groups have spent months or years preparing just isn't fair. It's a fix."

The report says the source is a 21-year-old female singer who declined to be identified in case it damaged her career.

"Those chosen were embarrassed," she continued. "They had all been at boot camp to audition as soloists and all been rejected. Then they were told they could have a second chance if they split themselves up into bands.

"It was too good an opportunity to turn down so they did it. You can't blame them. But it's so unfair on those groups who had legitimately gone through the audition process."

A show spokeswoman refused to comment directly on the allegation. But she said: "There were twists and turns that rocked some contestants - it was part of the judging and decision-making process."