British child protection groups have Simon Cowell in their sights after hearing of his plans to reduce the minimum age of contestants on his hit U.K. show The X Factor to 14-years-old.
Children's groups fear that harsh criticism from Cowell, who is known for his sharp tongue, will cause "emotional damage" in the young contestants when their dreams of fame and fortune are dashed. The groups also feel that the show sends out the wrong message about "bullying" as the much older and more powerful Cowell criticizes and berates contestants.
Representatives of these groups have asked for the show to provide proper support and counseling for their young contestants.
Show producers responded by saying, "Shyeah! As if! We're not the parents hanging our kids out to dry in front of Simon Cowell. But nice try!"
