Simon Cowell

Simon Cowell is devastated after a former 'X Factor' contestant rejected pleas to audition for this year's show. Mali Michael McCalla appeared on the ITV talent programme last year, but did not make it to the live final after Simon decided he was too young, at 15, to deal with the pressure. However, Simon has since encouraged Mali to reapply, but he declined as he is now in new boyband NSA.

A source told Britain's The Sun newspaper: "It's the real deal. He doesn't want to be associated with reality shows anymore."

Mali attended the London audition of the show last week to cheer on his father, Noel, who made it to the next round in the over 25s category.

Simon took the chance to ask Mali to re-audition, but he politely refused.

Show bosses are said to be devastated at his decision, as they believed he could make it all the way to the show's final.