James Arthur should be banned from performing on the 'X Factor' this weekend after making homophobic remarks, an online petition has demanded.
So far over 6,000 people have signed up to the 'Drop Homophobe James Arthur from XFactor' Facebook page, following his spat with former friend and 'X Factor' 2012 contestant Lucy Spraggan.
The 'Impossible' singer first sparked outrage when he performed a rap and used the term "f***ing queer".
He then reportedly sent abusive text messages to Lucy, who is openly gay, after she challenged his views.
James Arthur and Lucy Spraggan
In a statement to The Metro, ITV said: "Following his comments James has since apologised last week, making it clear that he did not mean to cause any offence and explaining the context behind his remarks".
Last week we reported James has been diagnosed with acute exhaustion, with all of his public appearances and performances cancelled for a week.
"Unfortunately James Arthur has been diagnosed with acute exhaustion and instructed to rest for several days by his doctor," a statement on his Facebook page read.
However, it seems he is now well enough to sing on the show that made him famous.