Simon Cowell Utilises Legal Team To Save X Factor Star Gamu

Simon Cowell has utilised his legal team to help save X Factor star Gamu Nhengu from being forced back to Zimbabwe.

The 18-year-old, who was controversially eliminated from the talent show last weekend, has been living in the UK while her mother studied at university.

But officials at the UK Border Agency said Nhengu's mother Nokuthula Ngazana had been refused permission to stay after her visa expired in August.

Cowell said his lawyers were working with Nhengu’s family to help them “as much as possible”.

"We have lawyers working with her lawyers, not because we have to - but because I really feel for their situation, and that's outside of the show,” he said.

He also denied reports that X Factor producers had any knowledge about the family’s visa status until last week.

Meanwhile, an online petition to save Nhengu from deportation has attracted over 5,000 signatures.