Simon Cowell has banned his 'X Factor' staff from dating any of the contestants.
Simon Cowell
The 58-year-old music mogul has reportedly issued a formal warning to the ITV show's production team informing them that they are "strictly forbidden" from striking up any romantic relations with the hopefuls - including making any "social arrangements" - and anyone who breaks the rules will risk being fired.
A source told The Sun Online: "Simon and the team have made it very clear this year that crew should not be getting any closer to those on the show any more than they need to in a professional manner."
Simon felt the need to send the stern note to his staff after last year's Myles Stephenson of Rak-Su grew close to researcher Demi Kaye.
The insider explained: "They weren't happy last year about one of the crew and Myles hooking up. They felt it was something they didn't need to tell people not to do, and yet it still happened. The note was very matter-of-fact and the senior executives are expecting it to be taken seriously."
Myles developed a bit of a reputation for himself last year as he also attempted to woo Cheryl Tweedy - who appeared at the Judges' Houses - even though she was in a relationship with now-ex-boyfriend Liam Payne at the time.
The 28-year-old hunk gave Cheryl the eye but she turned him down immediately.
She said with a giggle: "I'm taken, sorry."
Liam later appeared on the show for a solo performance and admitted that he was "keeping an eye" on Myles because he had the hots for the brunette beauty.
He joked: "He fancies my missus so I've got to keep an eye on him."
Tagged in Cheryl Tweedy Simon Cowell Liam Payne