THE X FACTOR: NEW DOCUMENTARY TO INVESTIGATE BULLYING AND MISTREATMENT CLAIMS

"Devasting allegations" about The X Factor are to be aired in a new TV documentary, according to reports from The Mail On Sunday.

The Mail On Sunday reports that two production companies are currently working on the documentary for an unknown broadcaster. The programme will explore "bully exploitation and harassment" claims by former contestants.

The outlet reports that "a number" of former X Factor contestants have agreed to take part, with at least one of Simon Cowell's aides - who no longer works for him - also taking part.

A source told The Mail: "There are currently some former contestants telling their stories for the programme. There are some out there who believe they were mistreated by the X Factor machine...

"They are now going to get their chance to have a say. But what is more worrying for Cowell and ITV is that there are some of his former lieutenants who are ready to break their silence on what went on."

The revelation comes weeks after it was reported that The X Factor was set for a TV comeback, with Channel 5 lined up as broadcaster. TV Zone has been told reports about Channel 5 airing X Factor are "completely untrue".

TV Zone has approached ITV for comment.