Updated 28 October 2002, 20.45

 Are reality talent shows too cruel? Comment here

He said programmes like Popstars: The Rivals and Fame Academy are "ruthless" and mess with the contestants' lives for the sake of entertainment.

Robbie said he had nothing against anyone following their dreams, but only if they actually had some chance of success.

Sing live

"There's a lot of talent but it's such cruel television," he said. Although he did add: "But it's great TV."

He said Popstars: The Rivals was particularly harsh as it made the teenager who's just been booted off the show sing live just seconds after they found out the bad news.

 Click here to see pix of Robbie thru' the years

Robbie made his views known on reality talent shows while filming a BBC special, called The Robbie Williams Show, which will be shown in November.

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