Singing legend Shirley Bassey has slammed reality TV talent shows for their failure to nurture any "real" talent.

The 70-year-old star is adamant those who are the most gifted on shows like American Idol and British show The X Factor are voted off well before the series' finals - and believes many young people want to become famous for nothing in particular.

She says, "It seems there's no place for people with talent anymore. You only have to look at television to see that. And if people do have any talent, they get voted out of the shows. It's disgusting. It's an abuse. It seems that people want to be famous for being nothing - or drinking. I'm always being asked if I watch The X Factor and I do from time to time. I know it makes for great TV and that Simon Cowell has a real gift. But it is a crying shame that kids who ought to have a great future are being ignored."

(This news article provided by World Entertainment News Network)