Cowell slams former winner

X Factor judge Simon Cowell has slammed the former winner of the reality TV talent show as a "nobody" who would still be touring clubs without the pro

10:37 28 August 2005

X Factor judge Simon Cowell has slammed the former winner of the reality TV talent show as a "nobody" who would still be touring clubs without the programme.

In an interview for The People newspaper, at the start of the latest series of the ITV1 show, the music mogul hit back at reigning champion Steve Brookstein, who last week accused the TV contest of "killing music."

"X Factor gave Steve instant stardom. It was a fast-track to fame for him," Cowell said.

"Without it he would still be touring clubs in a dirty van going up and down the motorway."

The acid-tongued judge, who masterminded Brooksteins career, said that ultimately tension between him and his protege had occurred because they could not agree on the musical direction the artist should take.

Brookstein wanted to record an album of his own music, while the pop producer wanted him to cover a series of well-known songs, Cowell said.

He added that he was still in talks with the former X Factor winner about whether they could work together, but "wouldn't stand in his way" if he chose not to sign up with his label.

"I don't believe in dictating to people and the great thing for him now is that on his CV he has a number one single and a number one album and he is a household name," said Cowell.