OFCom Warns The X Factor Bosses About Sex and Smut on this year’s Show

Television watchdog Ofcom have reportedly told X Factor bosses to “cut the smut” from this year’s show in order to avoid complaints.

An X Factor source told The Mirror: “There was a furore over last year’s final and the amount of flesh on show.

“So there have been lots of conversations about making sure The X Factor stays a family show and doesn’t become controversial for the wrong reasons. Ofcom made themselves very clear about what they expect, and the message they gave us was basically to cut the smut.

“We want the show to be explosive and exciting and some singers want to look sexy – but we have to know where to draw the line.”

Ofcom has also revealed plans to limit the use of “racy imagery” on family shows. “The guidelines will be there to make sure broadcasters like ITV don’t hover near the boundaries of harmful content to children,” they said.

Another source added: “The controversy really took everyone by surprise – both Ofcom and ITV. There will be a much tighter control on what is shown in terms of racy imagery.”

A spokesperson for ITV confirmed: “We take care to ensure that all our acts are suitable for the audience.”

The X Factor 2011 starts on Saturday.