Frankie Cocozza axed from X Factor

The controversial contestant has been booted off the show for 'breaking competition rules'

Controversial contestant Frankie Cocozza has been kicked off this year’s X Factor show, producers have confirmed, after breaking competition rules.

The teenage tearaway announced his departure in a statement earlier this afternoon, apologising to voters, and describing how his behaviour has 'over-stepped the rules of the competition.'

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It’s not yet know exactly which of the show’s ‘golden rules’ the 18-year-old broke, although reports suggest producers sent him packing after he boasted about drug use.

‘I'd like to apologise to Gary [Barlow], my fellow contestants and everyone who has voted for me, but, as of today, I will no longer be in The X Factor,’ Frankie’s official statement read.

‘My life during the show has gone out of control and my behaviour off stage has over-stepped the rules of the competition.

‘I no longer deserve my place in the show, so I am therefore leaving. I would like to thank everyone who has supported me.’

An ITV official later added: 'Frankie is leaving the show today after breaking competition rules. He is going to take some time out before continuing his career as a singer. We wish him all the best for his future.'

The singer’s untimely exit comes just days after television watchdog Ofcom pledged to investigate the singer’s antics, after letting a swearword slip before ITV’s 9pm watershed, and glamorising alcohol consumption.

Are you pleased to hear news of Frankie's X Factor exit? Why do you think he was really kicked off the show? Let us know in the comments box below.

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