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Wham! star Andrew Ridgeley slams TV talent shows like The X Factor as 'brutal'

The Wake Me Up Before You Go Go singer described the TV talent show process as "harsh"

Eighties pop star Andrew Ridgeley has blasted modern TV talent shows as "brutal" and says he fears for contestants appearing on shows such as The X Factor.

The ITV show has made stars such as One Direction, Little Mix and Olly Murs over the years but many of the others stars have disappeared after brief fame.

Andrew, who shot to fame as one half of the legendary pop dup Wham! back in the 1980s, said: "They have unearthed talent over the years.

"But it is very brutal way of doing that and I am not a big fan myself.

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Andrew Ridgeley has described modern TV talent shows as "brutal"(Image: PA)

"Its a TV programme made for entertainment and I think there is a lot in the way the process is really, really harsh on some kids and I wouldnt at all be surprised if it has lasting consequences for some who dont make it."

The 56-year-old was speaking at one event at the Cheltenham Literature Festival to promote his memoir about his friendship with George Michael entitled Wham! Georgie And Me.

The book details first meeting Michael in 1975 at Bushey Meads School to their rise to fame and success with hits including Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go and Last Christmas in the 1980s.

It also covers the bands farewell gig at Wembley Stadium in 1986 which Ridgeley wanted to be a tour.

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Andrew and George Michael made up pop duo Wham!(Image: Getty Images)

The X Factor returned to our screens over the weekend but this time with a twist.

The latest series features famous faces instead of the usual civilians.

Simon Cowell, Louis Walsh and Nicole Scherzinger resumed their roles on the judging desk and Dermot O'Leary returned to presenting duties.

The Chase star Jenny Ryan, Hayley Hasselhoff and The Islanders were just a few of the stars who took to the stage on the debut show on Saturday.

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X Factor: Celebrity returned to TV over the weekend(Image: PA)

Towie babe Megan McKenna, Ricki Lake and Corrie star Victoria Ekanoye will all sing in front of Simon and co this weekend.

X Factor boss Simon is hoping to transform the fortunes of the star by offering a big money deal with his Syco record label and a shot at the Christmas No1 as a prize.

The usual X Factor series would have already begun by now - but was replaced by the BGT: Champions spin-off show.

X Factor: Celebrity returns to ITV this Saturday at 8.35pm

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