Frankie kicked out

X Factor contestant broke one of the show's 'golden rules',,,

12:51 09 November 2011

Frankie Cocozza has been kicked off the X Factor.

The controversial rocker was given his marching orders from the ITV singing competition after breaking a "golden rule".

In a statement, the 18-year-old said:

"I'd like to apologise to Gary, my fellow contestants and everyone who has voted for me, but, as of today, I will no longer be in the X Factor.

"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."

Mentor Gary Barlow commented on the decision, saying:

"Frankie has apologised publicly as well as personally to me and the producers for his actions that led to him leaving the show. I'm hugely disappointed that he's thrown away an opportunity like this after working so hard to get here.

"I'm sorry to see him go as we've been through a lot together in such a short time. I hope Frankie continues to look to me as a friend and supporter and works it all out, picks himself up and somehow tries to turn this into a positive."

An X Factor spokesperson confirmed that the singer will be taking a break from music:

"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."

Show bosses will announce how FrankieÂ’s exit will affect the competition later this week.