A transgender X Factor contestant was said to be furious after programme staff mistakenly sent her an email calling her a “tranny”.

Pamela-Michelle Giovanni, 46, was sent the email by two junior researchers, the Sun reports.

The email, which discussed her performance, was headed ‘Pam the tranny’.

A source told the newspaper: “Pam got through four rounds and was well liked – but she had a meltdown when she saw the email.

“It wasn’t sent maliciously and the researchers have been distraught at the upset they have caused. They were disciplined but will keep their jobs because of their genuine remorse.”

An X Factor spokesperson said: “This matter was dealt with swiftly at the time and the contestant was given a full apology for any offence that may have been caused.”

Ms Giovanni has not commented.