But The X Factor loved that sort of thing – that uncomfortable grey area between entertainment and exploitation.
It was the first series of The X Factor, and an auditionee named Robert Unwin told the show’s judges – Simon Cowell, Sharon Osbourne and Louis Walsh – that he worked in a chicken factory, then sang a high-pitched rendition of Aqua’s “Barbie Girl”.
The X Factor didn’t grow meaner over time – cruelty was etched into its foundation.
Today (29 July), ITV confirmed that there are “no current plans” to bring back The X Factor, essentially cancelling the show after 17 years.