7th November 2006 13:00:01
The mother of 'X Factor' contestant Leona Lewis has hit out at the show claiming her daughter will never win because she is black.
Marie Lewis believes her 21-year-old Leona's dreams will be shattered by racist voters who will not support the singer because she is black.
Marie told New magazine: "It's her dream to win but I think the public will vote for Ben - racism does play a part in the public vote. How else can you explain Dionne going out so soon? 4sure have gone and Robert has been in the bottom two a few times, yet there were other acts that were not as talented but still getting voted for."
Last week, Ashley McKenzie, who is mixed race, was voted off the show.
A spokesman for the 'X Factor' has refused to comment on Marie's claims of racism.
Leona's mum also revealed how her daughter has grown up around music and singing and so it would be a dream come true for her to win the show.
femalefirst