Robbie Williams slammed for asking transgender X Factor contestant about his ‘deadname’

It hasn't been long since Robbie Williams joined the X Factor judging panel, but it appears he's already sparked controversy.

The former Take That star has been criticised by viewers after quizzing transgender contestant Felix Shephard about his past.

When asked to tell the judges about himself, Felix said, “I’m from Birmingham. I’m currently studying a degree in songwriting and I’m loving every second of it.”

“I’m kind of here today to prove to people that I’m more than just a transgender guy. We can be, kind of, overlooked, I suppose."

Robbie, whose wife Ayda Field is also on the judging panel, then said, “So when you were born, what was your name?”

Felix replied, “My name was Emily.”

GALLERY: The most eccentric X Factor finalists

The third-time father didn't stop there, pressing, “So when did you know you were Felix?”

“In about year nine at school, I told one of my friends that I didn’t really know what it all was," he replied.

"It was that point where I was like, for myself more than anything, I was like: ‘I’ve got to kind of be who I am’ and tell people."

The singer performed a stunning rendition of Kodaline's All I Want, which proved a hit with the audience and judging panel.

While Robbie applauded Felix's performance, viewers at home called him out on his intimate questions.

"Shocked to see trans man asked to deadname himself in public on the X factor #transphobia," one Twitter user wrote.

Another tweeted, "robbie my dude dont ask someones deadname," and another added, "All you need to know is they he's a transgender MAN. Robbie shouldn't have asked what his deadname was, as it is private, personal information, but I'm glad Felix wasn't too bothered".

If your favourite music icons are the Spice Girls and your favourite Ks are Kylie and the Kardashians, you need heat Radio in your life! heat Radio is portable, so you can listen to us on the move. Simply download our app from your phone’s app store or listen on DAB Digital Radio UK, on Freeview Channel 716 or online at heatradio.com and at heatworld.com. We’re on all the smart speakers too, just say “play heat Radio".