X Factor star Wagner is living on incapacity benefits for an injured shoulder despite managing to perform energetic dance routines every week, The Sun has reported.
The ex-PE and karate teacher, who has gained a cult following thanks to his eccentric performances, has been receiving £91.40 in benefits since injuring his shoulder last year.
An ITV spokesperson told The Sun: “We told him to talk to the benefits office.
“In terms of the show, clearly he was deemed physically fit enough to do the show because they all see a doctor.
“We wouldn’t put him on the show if we didn’t think he was fit enough.”
A source at the Department for Work and Pensions said they were aware of Wagner’s claims and that he had done ‘nothing wrong.’ They said: “He has kept the job centre up to date about his singing. He is due to be re-assessed for his fitness.”
Facebook campaigns calling for Wagner to win this year’s X Factor have saved the singer from ever appearing in the bottom two, despite repeat criticism from the judges that his singing is not up to scratch.
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