Nick Grimshaw has confessed he can’t say “no” to X Factor contestants if he can see their proud parents in the audience.

The Radio One DJ has joined the judging panel on the ITV talent show this year, and has admitted he is struggling with having to shatter the dreams of hopefuls by telling them when they are not good enough.

Nick said: “It depends if I can see their family. If it’s just them, I’m fine.

The X Factor judges
The new X Factor judges and hosts (Syco/Thames TV)

“If I can see their nanna or their mum I have to say, ‘Yes! You’re through!’

“I can’t be mean if I can see their nanna.

“I’m going to have to get tough I think.”

The 31-year-old presenter has been taking advice from more experienced judge Cheryl Fernandez-Versini on how to cope.

He revealed: “Cheryl has told me ‘Don’t feel sorry for them.’ Because then it’s not fair later on when the public gets to meet them and they’re rubbish, it’s just I felt sorry for them.”