X Factor Star Chico Slimani Recovers from Investment Con

Chico Slimani, known for his X Factor appearance in 2005 and his number one hit 'It's Chico Time,' has revealed he lost all his money due to an investment scam. The former singer invested heavily in a Middle Eastern scheme centered on his passion for health and fitness, only to be defrauded and left penniless. This setback occurred around the end of 2014. Slimani eventually returned to the health industry, creating BlockFit, a unique exercise method combining dance, combat, yoga, and meditation. This program gained popularity and was even integrated into Duncan Bannatyne's gyms. However, the coronavirus pandemic impacted his business and also brought personal tragedy, as he lost friends to suicide. In response, Slimani began channeling his efforts into helping individuals cope with depression and anxiety using breathwork techniques. He now hosts successful breathwork retreats globally, including locations like Bali, Thailand, Cyprus, Croatia, and Morocco, guiding people toward becoming the best versions of themselves. In a separate legal matter, Slimani appeared in court in December 2025 to deny a charge of drink driving, attributing a failed breathalyser test to cough medicine. His trial is scheduled for April 9, 2026.