The X Factor 2016 hit by 'fix' allegations as artist who performed to thousands at Wembley auditions

'This Ryan Lawrie, with a record deal and two tours with a boyband?'

Another year, another series of The X Factor begins. The pressure is on: with viewing figures down in 2015, ITV has already pulled out all the stops trying to win back viewers, bringing back Sharon Osbourne, Nicole Scherzinger, and Louis Walsh as judges, and Dermot O’Leary as the presenter.

However, perhaps the broadcaster was trying a little too hard to make sure the opening show was perfect, as viewers noted that one of the contestants was already a signed singer.

According to The Mirror, Ryan Lawrie - who auditioned with his own version of The Vamps' “Cecilia” - previously had a song hit 39 on the iTunes chart (the proceeds of which were donated to charity), was with record label Tutrax Records, completed two UK tours, and once played a major spot at Capital FM Summertime Ball (which takes place at Wembley Stadium).

Discussing his background on the show, Lawrie failed to mention he was once a reasonably successful singer, with viewers Tweeting out their annoyance.

One wrote: "So Ryan Lawrie said nothing big really happens in his life hasn't he been on Wembley Stadium Stage?” Another added: "Ryan 'nothing excited has happened to me' what about that time you played Wembley stadium?”

A spokesperson for the show said: "Ryan won a competition to sing at the Capital Summertime Ball at Wembley Stadium but he is not a signed artist and has never had a record deal. Anyone can apply for The X Factor whether they are professional or amateur, irrespective of their past experience and all contestants are auditioned on merit."

This year’s Britain's Got Talent suffered similar accusations when it turned out one acrobatic sword-swallower had performed for dozens of talent shows around the world.

The X Factor returns tonight at 8pm.