Former X Factor hopeful Chico suffers stroke

A statement from his publicist Kym Rowlingson said: "We can confirm that Chico has sadly suffered a stroke".

In an official statement, his spokesperson told The Mirror: "We can confirm that Chico has sadly suffered a stroke".

The 47-year-old appeared on the 2005 series of The X Factor, where his catchphrase 'it's Chico time!' made him a fan favourite.

After reaching the quarter finals of the 2005 series of The X Factor, his 2006 song, It's Chico Time, knocked Madonna from the top of the charts. Slimani placed fifth that year on "X Factor", with Shayne Ward eventually winning the competition that year.

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Chico had a number of guest appearances on shows, including Never Mind The Buzzcocks and Ant and Dec's Saturday Night Takeaway.

More recently he finished third on the 2012 edition of Dancing on Ice and has been involved in charity work for his own Rainbow Child Foundation.

Chico was paired with Canadian professional Jodeyne Higgins, and came in third place, being beaten by Jorgie Porter and victor Matthew Wolfenden.

Chico married Daniyela Rakic in 2008 and they have two children, Lalla-Kira and Zacharia.