’X Factor’ contestant Honey G has set the record straight, after viewers claimed to have heard her using the N-word on the show.
The rapper was at the centre of a new racism storm, after some fans of the ITV talent show believed she used the offensive term during her performance of Kris Kross’ hit ‘Jump’ on Saturday (5 November) night.
After many flooded social media debating as to what Honey had said, she later took to Twitter herself to clear up the rumours.
“To be clear I did not use any offensive language,” she tweeted.
“I sang the correct lyrics and said “kicking the flavor that makes you wanna jump”.
An ‘X Factor’ spokesperson also backed Honey up, telling Digital Spy: “Honey G did not use any offensive language. She sang the correct lyrics and said, ‘kicking the flavour that makes you wanna jump’.”
It is not the first time Honey has been accused of racism, as many commentators have claimed her act is a form of cultural appropriation.
Singer Lily Allen and rapper Kano are among those who have spoken out against Honey, but she was defended by show boss Simon Cowell following her latest performance.
“So many people are getting their knickers in a twist over you - music can be fun. And you are fun, and you’re believable, you’re entertaining, and by the way, backstage you’re one of the nicest contestants we’ve ever had on the show,” he said.
She had previously defended herself after it was suggested her performances could be perceived as racist, insisting that she even felt “discriminated against” as an aspiring rapper who is white.
‘The X Factor’ continues on Saturday and Sunday at 8pm on ITV.