Tensions backstage on the X Factor are hotting up after Simon Cowell refused to confirm Dannii Minogue's fate on the show.

All the finalists and judges were present to witness music producer Simon give Dannii the cold-shoulder at a press conference in London yesterday.

When asked about Dannii's future on the programme, Simon said, "I thought last year Sharon was coming back.

"We need to get the contracts sorted out but I wouldn't be surprised if it's a different line up."

Dannii has been the subject of controversy since this series began - with rumours of backstage cat fights with Simon's new favourite Cheryl Cole and an on-screen face-off with Louis Walsh.

But the Irish judge is quick to laugh off their rivalry: "We do get emotional (laughs and looks at Dannii) but that's the good thing about it we don't take it serious."

Meanwhile Dannii recognises that her time on the show hasn't always been a bed of roses.

She said, "It's just been an incredible series...ups and downs, all over the place."