X Factor's Chico stopped daughter from signing record deal as he opens up on fears of modern audiences

Mr Slimani, who was speaking to GB News on behalf of new online bingo brand Zingo Bingo said: “Now everybody has an opinion. And the truth is, because it’s on your social media feed, unless you totally ignore it and don’t read it, you are going to read it.

"And if you are not stable enough in your confidence, then it’s going to have massive repercussions on your mental health."

Mr Slimani spoke fondly about meeting fellow contestants and mentors on the singing competition, recalling the iconic moment when he jumped into a pool with a live microphone on stage.

He said it was a pivotal moment in his career, gaining recognition from the late Ozzy Osbourne and helping launch his original song Chico Time to the top of the UK charts.

The singer emphasised the importance of family support and having a thick skin for young performers entering the music industry today.

“Surround yourself by a group of family and friends that are always going to tell you the truth and keep your feet on the ground,” he advised.

Reflecting on his own children, Mr Slimani revealed that he prevented his daughter, Lakira, from signing record deals despite her talent.

He explained: “I said, ‘You’re not ready, not because you’re not talented… but because of the world out there.’”

The Chico Time singer stressed that social media and constant public scrutiny make today’s environment far harsher than in his own time.

Mr Slimani also discussed the changing nature of fame in the UK.

“It literally flipped the script. Everything just became upside down… more people now can become big stars without having to have a talent. They just have to have a niche… so in that sense, it has diluted it and it has killed the star.

"And to be honest, I don’t think it’s a bad thing… at the end of the day, it’s all entertainment, and if something entertains you, then good luck to you.”

Despite the challenges, Mr Slimani highlighted his post-X Factor successes, including creating two fitness and wellness brands, writing a bestselling book, performing in pantomimes, and running charity retreats around the world.

Other stars to have come through Mr Cowell's singing competitions such as Kelly Clarkson, the first-ever winner of American Idol, and Little Mix' Jade Thirlwall have publicly praised the music mogul for changing their lives.

However, many UK celebrities have voiced similar concerns as Mr Slimani regarding their children entering the public eye.

Harry Potter star Daniel Radcliffe said he wants his future children to avoid fame “at all costs,” citing the intense scrutiny actors face.

Singer Ed Sheeran has admitted he “would not wish” his career path on his children, while former Atomic Kitten Kerry Katona has previously said her fame negatively impacted her own children.

Sir David and Lady Victoria Beckham have also spoken about fears of “harming” their children through public exposure.

Louis Tomlinson, who also gained his fame through the X Factor, maintains strict social media boundaries for his son, Freddie, and Take That's Gary Barlow has supported his children choosing non-showbiz careers.

Mr Slimani concluded by praising the British public, calling them “the salt of the earth,” and stressing that his focus remains on constructive projects like charity work and wellness retreats rather than the pressures of fame.