X Factor (UK) 2012

Louis Walsh is the only judge so far who has been offered a deal for next year's series of The X Factor, according to a report.

However, his fellow judges Gary Barlow, Tulisa Contostavlos and Kelly Rowland must wait until next year to hear if they will be hired again, The Mirror claims.

"Louis is the only judge who has been verbally offered a deal. Despite all the reports that he has been sacked, he is 100% nailed on to be back - if he wants the job," an insider is quoted as saying.

The source also suggests that Simon Cowell has already privately told show bosses that he is keen to keep Walsh on the panel, asking them to start drawing up a contract which could be worth as much as £1 million in order to keep him.

Previous press reports have claimed that Walsh may leave the show and he told former colleague Dannii Minogue in an interview that he is "50/50" about returning to the show in the future.

He added that he does not find the atmosphere as fun as in previous years and said that he "wants [his] life back".

Kitty Brucknell, Walsh's last remaining act in the competition, was eliminated two weeks ago on November 13.

Walsh is the only original judge remaining on the panel. Barlow, Contostavlos and Rowland were all hired this year to replace Minogue, Cowell and Cheryl Cole.

Former Dancing On Ice star Laura Hamilton has revealed she has been in talks to host X Factor spin-off The Xtra Factor.

The blonde beauty told new! how she had narrowly missed the opportunity to front the show last year, with Olly Murs and Caroline Flack eventually taking the roles.

“I met Simon Cowell to talk about The Xtra Factor,” Laura told the magazine.

On last year’s discussions, Laura revealed how she and Radio 1 DJ Matt Edmondson had been in line to take over the ITV2 spin-off show from Konnie Huq.

“I think there were four of us in the running, but obviously Caroline [Flack] and Olly [Murs] got it and I think they did an amazing job.

“I think [Matt Edmondson] actually kind of got the job but then it all changed at the last minute. They keep you on your toes!”

Of course where these new talks leave Caroline and Olly is anyone’s guess, although Olly has confessed to being unsure of a return.

He said last year: “I’ve told them that I’m open to speak about it next year, but I’m not saying ‘No’ and I’m not saying ‘Yes’.

“We’ll see what happens. Presenting is always a tricky one because the more you do it, the more you get typecast as a presenter and I’m not a TV presenter, you know?

“I want to continue doing my singing, but we’ll see what happens next year.”


http://tellymix.co.uk/reality-tv/the...#ixzz1iyj4FJ2N

I like Olly and Caroline

Olly Murs has said that he expects to return to The Xtra Factor this series.

The 'Dance With Me Tonight' singer previously hinted that he would not host a second year of the spinoff as he wants to concentrate on his music career.

"It looks likely I will do The Xtra Factor again," he told The Sun. "But I don't want to do any other TV. I don't want TV to overshadow the music."

The 27-year-old added that although his flirtatious act with co-host Caroline Flack had been "a conscious decision", it wasn't long before a natural attraction built between them.

"It was a conscious decision to play up the 'are they? aren't they?' thing but we got on so well that we flirted with each other anyway," he said. "At the start we flirted a lot and people were talking, but now we've got to the end of the series we're just good mates."

Murs also revealed that he is on course to become a millionaire this year. :D

Estelle has reportedly been approached to replace Kelly Rowland on The X Factor.

The 'American Boy' singer is said to have been lined up for a judging role by Simon Cowell after Rowland expressed a desire to concentrate on her US career.

"Estelle's name is very high on his list now and serious enquiries have been made as to her availability for auditions in May," a source told The Sun.

Rowland recently said that she would love to join The X Factor USA as a replacement for departed judges Nicole Scherzinger and Paula Abdul.

A representative for the ex-Destiny's Child star last month played down suggestions that she is leaving The X Factor, telling Digital Spy that she "enjoyed every minute the show".

Cowell has said that he is open to reshuffling the panel of Rowland, Tulisa Contostavlos, Louis Walsh and Gary Barlow, though the latter confirmed last week that he is in talks to return as a judge.

X Factor bosses have changed the rules to allow acts with managers to audition.

For the first time in the show's history, anyone can enter the ITV1 singing competition, regardless of their professional background or current representation.

Gary Barlow, who is yet to sign a contract for the next series, told the Radio 2 Breakfast show yesterday: "They're letting people apply who already have managers. They're hoping for a more developed artist, more developed group, if they have management."

Thames TV chief Richard Holloway confirmed the news, telling The Sun: "The change means we won't miss out on any talent."

He added that anyone aged 16 and over can enter The X Factor, whether they are "an amateur artist, have had a management deal in the past or have one now".

Auditions with producers start in Liverpool next weekend and continue in Manchester, Cardiff, Glasgow, London and Newcastle over the coming weeks.

Simon Cowell recently confirmed a similar move for The X Factor USA, announcing that he has "torn up the rulebook" to improve the show.

oh please, they always snuck people in anyway! Looking at you Leona Lewis...

Olly Murs has reportedly announced that he is returning to The Xtra Factor this year.

The 'Heart Skips a Beat' singer will present ITV2's X Factor spinoff with Caroline Flack for a second year running, according to The Mirror.

The 27-year-old, who finished runner-up in 2009's X Factor series, apparently confirmed the news to his fans at a gig in Dublin.

It follows an earlier report claiming that Simon Cowell had given Murs an ultimatum between his Xtra Factor commitments and his music career.

However, the Xtra Factor lineup is not expected to be officially announced until the summer.

The In Case You Didn't Know artist has previously admitted that he is unsure of whether he will continue his role on The Xtra Factor.

Marcus Collins has predicted that Gary Barlow will return to The X Factor this year.

The Take That star confirmed last month that he is in talks to rejoin the panel, though his future on the show was questioned following the announcement that his wife is expecting their fourth child.

Barlow's X Factor protegee Collins, however, said that he is confident the singer will sign up for another series.

"Gary is the fountain of all knowledge when it comes to stories of the music industry," he told the Daily Star. "We're always having a laugh.

"Gary is a great role model, family man and amazing musician - and I think he'll do X Factor again."

On his own future, Collins said that he would be concentrating on the UK music scene and put off trying to crack America like other X Factor acts.

"The other day I saw a picture of One Direction in red, white and blue clothes; really American and wondered what was going on," he commented.

"America might be a little ambitious for me. I want to focus on the UK - it's where my heart is."

Gary Barlow could be forced to quit The X Factor over his commitment to the Queen's Diamond Jubillee celebrations.

The Take That star, who confirmed last month that he is in talks to return to the panel, is writing a song with Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber celebrating the anniversary of Elizabeth II's coronation, touring the Commonwealth for a special documentary, and organising a Buckingham Palace concert to take place on June 4.

Barlow's royal duties are set to clash with the audition stages of this year's X Factor, and although Simon Cowell is said to be attempting to work out an appropriate schedule, it has been suggested that the singer may have to give up his seat.

"Gary wants to go back and Simon wants him but he has got a lot on this summer, namely the Jubilee concert which is taking up a lot of his time," a source told The People.

"This and other projects he is working on mean that unless the audition schedule changes, Gary won't be an X Factor judge for this year's show, which will be a huge blow for Simon.

"He loved the X Factor line-up last year and he hopes that he will be able to keep it the same. It is going to take a lot of juggling around though."

Gary Barlow may have to pull out of the Judges' Houses stage of this year's X Factor, a report has claimed.

The Take That star's wife Dawn is due to give birth to the couple's fourth child in early October, according to The Sun.

However, during negotiations with ITV earlier this week, Barlow allegedly assured bosses that he will return to the panel later this year.

"Everyone was delighted Gary agreed to come back for another series of X Factor," a source claimed. "There's no ink on the contract, but he's good for his word."

"He was being a bit sheepish about his decision though because the diary has kicked up some problems," the insider added.

"Gary has promised he'll be present for the birth, but Simon Cowell is a tough task master. It could be very tricky."

Questions have also been raised over whether Barlow can appear in the competition's auditions stage because of his commitment to the Queen's Diamond Jubilee celebrations in June.

Cowell previously stated his intention to lure back all four judges - Barlow, Tulisa Contostavlos, Kelly Rowland and Louis Walsh - for series nine of the ITV talent show.

Simon Cowell has revealed that he is considering axing The X Factor after this year's series.

The Syco boss already has a new format "in development" to replace the talent show franchise, which launched in 2005.

"In a year's time we might say, 'Right, that's the end of The X Factor. Let's start something new'," the Daily Star quotes him as saying.


Of last year's ratings dip, the music mogul said: "I'd rather fall off the cliff on numbers than deteriorate slowly."

Cowell added: "We have something in development which could replace The X Factor. Most things in music, fashion or TV tend to be across a ten-year period.

"The great test of success is if you can transcend a decade. I believe we can do it again if we're prepared to be brave."

The 52-year-old, who quit the talent show last year to launch X Factor in the US, recently signalled his intention to return to the UK panel.

Meanwhile, Cowell has also backed 2011 judges Gary Barlow, Tulisa Contostavlos, Kelly Rowland and veteran Louis Walsh to return for a second year together.

An ITV spokesman said: "It is the UK's most popular entertainment show and we're looking forward to another great series."

Quote:

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Tulisa Contostavlos has reportedly obtained a court injunction after an alleged sex tape was posted online.

Footage of a blonde-haired female performing oral sex on an unidentified male was released yesterday. While the host website offered to sell the footage to users, lawyers for the star personally visited the offices of another website which had posted the seven-minute video.

According to reports, a gagging order has now been granted by the High Court after lawyers in both the UK and USA took action. It prevents anyone from using, publishing, communicating or disclosing to any other person, all or any part of the film.

UK publication Pappzd took down the video after receiving a "handwritten cease and desist notice".

Co-owner and editor Nadia Kabahita told BBC Newsbeat that the site, which normally receives 4,000 views, had received 50,000 after publishing the clip.

A spokesperson for the X Factor judge told Digital Spy: "Tulisa has asked us not to comment on speculation about her personal life."

A message posted on the Twitter feed belonging to Contostavlos's cousin Dappy claimed that the male in the video is their N-Dubz bandmate Fazer.

The now-deleted tweets suggested that the producer had recorded the footage himself and was seeking revenge against Contostavlos, from whom he split earlier this year.

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And it is not suppose to be her yet she gets injunction???

Olly Murs has confirmed that ITV wants him to return to The Xtra Factor.

The In Case You Didn't Know star told fans that he is "definitely" accepting the offer to host his second series of the ITV2 spinoff show.

Murs wrote on Twitter: "So just to clear up.. DEFINITELY doing Xtra Factor again this year, just need to sign on the dotted line and just work out my dates!"

The 27-year-old X Factor runner-up had previously admitted that he was unsure about whether bosses would renew his contract.

With Murs supporting One Direction on their US tour this summer, The Sun claims that 2011 co-host Caroline Flack will front the audition shows alone.

"X Factor bosses loved Olly on last year's show and really wanted him to do it," a source alleged.

"Once the One Direction tour was confirmed we decided to offer him just the live shows instead."

However, ITV has not yet officially unveiled either Murs or Flack as the 2012 hosts.

Gary Barlow has confirmed that he is returning for a second series on The X Factor, admitting that he is "thrilled to be back" on the ITV1 talent show.

The Take That star, who mentored Marcus Collins to the runner-up spot on last year's show, is the first judge confirmed for the 2012 series.

"I'm thrilled to be back and really looking forward to working with the X Factor team again," said Barlow.

"The fact that a superstar could just walk out on that stage is very exciting."

Show boss Simon Cowell claimed that Barlow has "earned his place" on the panel and said that was "excited" to be working alongside Barlow again.

ITV's director of television Peter Fincham said: "Gary quickly established himself as a key member of The X Factor judging panel, drawing on his years of experience in the music industry to help in the search for our undiscovered singing stars.

"I'm thrilled to welcome him back to the biggest show on British television."

Tulisa Contostavlos and Louis Walsh are also expected to be back on the Saturday night show when it returns; however, Kelly Rowland's spot on the panel appears to be hanging in the balance.

Richard Holloway from X Factor producers Thames said: "Gary brings his vast music expertise, his fabulous character and down-to-earth approach to the show and audiences adore him so we are absolutely delighted that he's coming back."

X Factor's open auditions tour around the UK has finished, although hopeful singers can still apply via Facebook until May 8.

A new twist to the show's format means that any artist or act, aged 16 or above, can apply for the show, even if they have a management deal.

The three other judges will be announced soon ahead of the spring auditions tour. The X Factor will air again in the late summer on ITV1.

The X Factor will host mobile auditions in order to widen its talent search for 2012, producer Thames has announced.

Sponsored by TalkTalk, the singing show will send its own van out to towns and cities not included in the arena auditions.

Commencing from later this week on Wednesday, April 25 in Plymouth, the search will visit Bangor and Aberystwyth in Wales, Dublin in Northern Ireland, as well as Edinburgh, Inverness, Aberdeen and Dundee in Scotland.

In England, the mobile auditions will go to Blackpool, Carlisle, Middlesbrough, Wakefield, Derby, Norwich, Colchester, Southend and Chatham, before ending at Brighton on Sunday, May 13.

Gary Barlow, the only judge confirmed so far to return this autumn, said in a statement: "We want to make sure we find all the talent the country has to offer and the extra auditions allow even more people to try out."

Unlike previous series, auditions will be open to applicants who have had record deals in the past, a precedent set by The X Factor USA.

Hopefuls can enter on The X Factor's Facebook page to win an audition in front of the panel until ITV's deadline of May 8.

The X Factor is expected to return in late August on ITV1.

Dannii Minogue will reportedly be returning to The X Factor.

The Australian singer and fashion designer, who was previously a judge on the talent contest from 2007 to 2010, will replace Kelly Rowland on the panel, according to the Sunday Mirror.

The newspaper reports that Simon Cowell is keen to see Minogue, who is allegedly in negotiations with ITV, return to the show.

He is also said to have recruited Katy Perry as a guest judge for the new series. The 'Part of Me' popstar previously acted as a guest judge during Minogue's maternity leave in 2010.

A source close to the music mogul said: "Simon thinks she's great. They are still friends. If it works out, then it will be fantastic for X Factor. No formal offer has yet gone out, but this is likely to happen in the next few days."

The report comes just under two weeks after a controversial new biography of Cowell by Tom Bower revealed that he and Minogue had a secret affair during The X Factor's 2007 run.

Both Louis Walsh and Gary Barlow have confirmed that they will be returning to the judges' panel for the 2012 series of the show, with Tulisa Contostavlos also expected to continue in her role.

Kelly Rowland has confirmed that she will not return to the X Factor panel. :( I liked her

The former Destiny's Child singer joined the show last year, but will be replaced in this year's judging lineup.

"After much speculation, we can officially confirm today that Kelly Rowland has decided not to return as a judge again for this year's UK X Factor," her spokesperson said.

"Global commitments coupled with the show's increasing demands this year mean that, despite weeks of deliberation with the show, Kelly has not been able to agree a deal that fits into her autumn/winter schedule, so sadly cannot accept a place on the 2012 panel.

"Kelly thoroughly enjoyed her role as a judge on the show, but felt that if there couldn't be a workable solution to scheduling issues so that she could effectively juggle her other commitments then she couldn't wholeheartedly commit to the show this year."

Rowland said: "I love the UK and being part of the show last year. Mentoring the girls was such an incredible experience I will never forget. I would like to thank Simon for the great opportunity and asking me to be a judge last season."

A spokesperson for The X Factor said: "Kelly's immense experience in the music industry shone through in both her judging and mentoring on The X Factor and we would like to thank her for being a part of the country's number one show and wish her well for the future."

They added: "The judging panel will be announced in due course."

Show host Dermot O'Leary recently told Digital Spy that he would like to see Rowland back on the panel, adding that the programme needs "continuity".

Dannii Minogue, who was on the judging panel between 2007 and 2010, has been tipped to return in place of Rowland. It recently emerged that Minogue had a fling with show boss Simon Cowell in 2007.

Fellow judge Tulisa Contostavlos has said that she would get on with Minogue should she return to the show.

Gary Barlow confirmed his return to the head of the panel earlier this month and is said to have signed a £2 million contract.

Great she was awful last year

The filmed X Factor audition dates have been announced.

All four judges will have to be confirmed before Wednesday, May 23 when the judge auditions kick off in Liverpool.

Dermot O'Leary will be hosting the audition shows, while Caroline Flack will also be on the tour presenting spinoff series The Xtra Factor.

Gary Barlow is the only judge officially confirmed to be taking part in the series. However, Louis Walsh and Tulisa Contostavlos are almost certain to be joining him on the panel.

A replacement for Kelly Rowland on the show is yet to be named.

After the first date in Liverpool, the competition will film auditions in London, Manchester, Glasgow, Newcastle and Cardiff.

The full X Factor audition dates are as follows:

May 23 - Liverpool
May 28-30 - London
June 5-7 - Manchester
June 11 - Glasgow
June 18 - Newscastle
June 25 - Cardiff

Louis Walsh is the second judge confirmed for the 2012 series of The X Factor.

Walsh will make his ninth appearance on the judging panel whe the show returns to ITV1 at the end of the summer. He joins Take That's Gary Barlow, who announced that he was returning last month.

The Irish music mogul, who has managed acts such as Boyzone, Westlife and X Factor finalists Jedward, is the only judge to appear on every series of The X Factor.

"It's my ninth year on the show and I'm delighted to take my seat once more on the judging panel," said Walsh.

X Factor boss Simon Cowell said: "The show wouldn't be the same without Louis. I'm really happy he is coming back."

Co-star Barlow commented on Twitter: "I hear there's a lovely lad from Ireland joining me on X Factor. Congrats Louis! One of these years you'll be head judge."

Walsh was famously ditched from X Factor in 2007, when he was replaced by choreographer Brian Friedman. However, Cowell quickly reinstated Walsh after only a couple of days of auditions, confessing that he had made a "big mistake" dumping his co-star and friend.

Tulisa Contostavlos is expected to be announced as the third X Factor judge soon, but a replacement for Kelly Rowland, who confirmed her departure this week, remains up in the air.

Dannii Minogue is Digital Spy readers' pick to fill the vacant fourth judge slot.

X Factor filmed auditions begin on May 23, so all four judges must be confirmed before that date.

Peter Fincham, ITV's director of television, said: "Louis is, quite simply, an X Factor institution. It's great to have him back for this year's run."

Richard Holloway, managing director at Thames, added: "Louis's wealth of experience in the music industry, coupled with the fact he has been on every series of The X Factor, makes him a fantastic judge and mentor."

Pop sensation Katy Perry is to be the fourth X Factor judge after a work clash ruled out Dannii Minogue.

The I Kissed A Girl singer impressed boss Simon Cowell, 52, when she *appeared as guest judge two years ago.

Now Katy, 27, is about to replace Kelly Rowland, 31, and is said to be delighted about joining the hit ITV1 Saturday night show.

Katy has few work commitments for the coming year after her plans to have a baby were dashed by the collapse of her 14-month marriage to comedian Russell Brand, 36. She is also keen to take a break from America to *escape the spotlight around their divorce.

The X Factor is *finalising the deal. A show insider said: “Simon and the *producers are really keen to get Katy, she was excellent last time. Advanced talks are taking place.” Dannii, 40, who has just broken up with boyfriend Kris Smith, 33, was top of the list to replace Kelly.

But mum-of-one Dannii, rocked by her romance with Cowell being made public, is a judge on Australia’s Got Talent which clashes with X Factor. Judges Gary Barlow, 41, Louis Walsh, 59, and Tulisa Contostavlos, 23, are all returning to X Factor.

Rod Stewart has reportedly signed up to guest judge The X Factor.

Filmed auditions start in Liverpool on Wednesday but bosses are still searching for a permanent replacement for Kelly Rowland after Dannii Minogue rejected a £1m offer to return.

Producers are said to be worried that it is too late to secure an A-list star like Katy Perry and fear they could end up with Sinitta on the judging panel.

"Rod is a genuine living legend and exactly what the show needs. The details are still to be ironed out but it looks like he'll be at the auditions next month in London and possibly Glasgow because of his Scottish heritage," a source told The Mirror.

"He's sold more than 100 million records worldwide so he knows exactly what it takes to succeed in the tough world of showbusiness, and hopefully he'll also be a big draw for viewers who might not have been fans of The X Factor before.

"It's a big coup to get him involved and Simon Cowell is absolutely thrilled."

Plans to hire Perry, who proved popular as a guest judge in 2010, were apparently sidelined as bosses pursued Minogue.

"Katy was a big hit with viewers when she appeared on the show, but Simon didn't act fast enough to land her for this year," the source added. "It looks like getting her now is impossible because of her other commitments.

"We have known there was an empty space to be filled for months, but it has become more and more obvious over the last 24 hours that nobody has any idea who will fill the empty slot.

"Simon had put all his eggs in one basket with Dannii Minogue, and now everyone is scratching their heads wondering who they can get. Nobody wants another boring last-minute filler like Carmen Electra, but it's almost impossible to get an A-list star with just a few days' notice."

Estelle, LeAnn Rimes and Westlife singer Kian Egan are among those being considered for the job.

Louis Walsh, Gary Barlow and Tulisa Contostavlos will return to The X Factor, as well as host Dermot O'Leary.

Geri Halliwell is to join the X Factor panel as a guest judge this week.

The former Spice Girls singer will sit alongside Gary Barlow, Louis Walsh and Tulisa Contostavlos when filmed auditions begin later this week, according to The Mirror.

"Geri certainly isn't afraid to speak her mind and that's exactly what the show needs," a source told the paper. "She was in the Spice Girls, one of the biggest bands in pop history, so she knows exactly what it takes to succeed in this industry.

"She's a tough cookie and has dealt with everything the music business has thrown at her, so she's well qualified to spot contestants who have the talent and the personality to make it... no doubt her feisty personality will make for some brilliant television."

X Factor bosses are currently seeking a fourth permanent judge to complete the panel after Dannii Minogue reportedly declined an offer to return to the show last week.

Rod Stewart, Robbie Williams and No Doubt musician Gwen Stefani have also been linked with X Factor guest judging slots.

Halliwell previously stood in as a guest panellist two years ago when Minogue was pregnant with son Ethan, and was reportedly booed by audience members in Glasgow.

Filmed auditions for The X Factor begin on Wednesday (May 23) in Liverpool.

A report in the Sun said that some hopefuls, such as more established acts, had been invited to fast-track auditions separate from everyone else.

A spokesperson said that although acts with management deals were now able to try out, everyone still had to go through the same process.

To see the judges, acts must first audition for the show's producers.

A spokesman said: "All acts have to apply and go through the same process as every other act.

"All acts are auditioned on their own merits and the judges then decide who goes through to the live shows."

For the first time this year, music managers and talent scouts have been told their acts can apply for the new series.

That means that singers and groups are eligible even if they already have a management deal, or have had one in the past.

However, the show said the new rules didn't give any guarantee that anyone would get past the initial producer auditions.

Potential stars were also able to skip the open audition days this year by uploading a performance via Facebook or YouTube.

The ninth series of the singing show returns to ITV at the end of the summer.

X FACTOR chiefs are desperate to sign sexy number one chart sensation Rita Ora as the new judge on their show.



Supremo Simon Cowell believes the street-wise 21-year-old blonde would be an excellent rival to Tulisa Contostavlos.




Her single R.I.P. is currently number one and she has worked with Jay-Z, 42, will.i.am, 37, and Kanye West, 34.




Cowell, 52, has also short-listed Alicia Keys and Avril Lavigne to fill the one vacant seat still left on the panel.





The ITV show has been thrown into turmoil after judge Kelly Rowland, 31, the former Destiny’s Child singer, quit last month.




Producers thought they could lure ex-panellist Dannii Minogue, 40, back but she turned them down.




Auditions for the new series begin tomorrow in Liverpool.




A raft of guest judges from the pop world, including Geri Halliwell, 39, and Robbie Williams, 38, will now join the others including Gary Barlow, 41, Tulisa, 24, and Louis Walsh, 59. But TV chiefs are desperate to sign another pop star to join the show full time when it goes live in the autumn, and top of their list is Rita.




The Balkans War refugee, who is dating Rob Kardashian, 25, clearly has the X Factor because she recently got a smacker from Rihanna, 24.




But Rita, who is currently working on her debut album, is not the only one in hush-hush talks for the post on the top-rated show.




Bosses also have their eye on American R&B singer Alicia, 31, who has sold more than 30million records and whose hits include Empire State Of Mind.




And Canadian star Avril Lavigne, 27, who has scored smashes with Complicated and Sk8er Boi, is also on the hit list.




A source said: “The clock is ticking to grab someone fast.




“When you sign up to be a judge on The X Factor you’re giving up five months of your life so your diaries need to be cleared for the rest of the year.”




Last night a spokeswoman for the said: “All names are pure speculation at this point.”

Leona Lewis has been confirmed as the next X Factor UK guest judge.

The 'Collide' singer, who won the third series of the ITV competition in 2006, will join regular panellists Gary Barlow, Tulisa Contostavlos and Louis Walsh at auditions in London starting tomorrow (May 26).

Lewis will take over from Geri Halliwell, who joined the judges for try-outs in Liverpool and has been rumoured to become a permanent fixture on the show.

Speculation that Lewis would judge The X Factor emerged yesterday (May 25) in a report that also named Mel B and Rita Ora as potential future panelists.

The 'Bleeding Love' artist has recently appeared as a guest mentor on the Swedish version of The X Factor.

Guest judges are being sought for the ninth series of the UK contest after Kelly Rowland departed the show and Dannii Minogue rejected a rumoured £1m offer to return.

Rita Ora will guest judge The X Factor, it has been confirmed.

The 'R.I.P.' singer will join the panel for tomorrow's (May 28) auditions in London, as had previously been rumoured.

"Or-some news! We can officially reveal that Brit babe and RIP singer Rita Ora will be guest Judging tomorrow in London. #GuestJudgesRule," the X Factor Twitter account confirmed.

Ora follows Geri Halliwell and former winner Leona Lewis, who guest judged in Liverpool and London respectively.

X Factor bosses are still searching for a permanent replacement for Kelly Rowland, who confirmed her exit in April.

Simon Cowell reportedly wants Ora to join the panel full-time, while current judges Louis Walsh, Tulisa *Contostavlos and Gary Barlow have called for Sharon Osbourne to return.

A source close to Ora said that the job is "hers to lose" after she impressed producers during meetings.

Mel B and Tinie Tempah are also rumoured to have signed up to guest judge The X Factor.

Nicole Scherzinger has been confirmed as the latest X Factor guest judge, Digital Spy can reveal.

The Pussycat Doll singer and former X Factor USA judge will be the latest star to fill the fourth spot on the panel, following stints from Geri Halliwell, Leona Lewis and Rita Ora.


"I'm super excited to be back in London for The X Factor!" said Scherzinger, who was a guest judge during the auditions and Boot Camp stage of the 2010 series.

"Last time I was here we found One Direction and I can't wait to find more unique and interesting talent here in the UK."

Following the departure of Kelly Rowland, a full-time fourth judge has yet to be found. Geri Halliwell and Rita Ora are reportedly in the running to get the gig full-time. However, the Spice Girl apparently failed to gel with Louis Walsh, Tulisa Contostavlos and Gary Barlow during her guest stint in Liverpool.

Ora has been impressive during her stint on the panel in London, but her lack of experience may count against her getting the job permanently.

The X Factor auditions continue today at London's O2 with Ora appearing in the morning session and Leona Lewis in the afternoon. Scherzinger will appear tomorrow at the O2.

It sounds like they are auditioning potential full time judges who ever gets on the best as a guest judge gets the job full time :p

Nicole Scherzinger has signed up to join the judging panel on the new series of The X Factor.

The singer will join Gary Barlow, Louis Walsh and Tulisa Contostavlos on the talent show in a reported £750,000 deal.

The former Pussycat Dolls star replaced Cheryl Cole on the US version of the show after the Girls Aloud singer was dropped from the panel last year.

Bosses had been trying out a series of guest judges to replace Kelly Rowland on the UK show, including former Spice Girls Geri Halliwell and Mel B.

Chart-toppers Rita Ora and Anastacia have also taken turns on the panel judging the hundreds of contestants attempting to find fame and fortune on the ITV1 programme.

Nicole, who was born in Hawaii, is dating Formula 1 star Lewis Hamilton and recently appeared in Men In Black 3.

ITV are reportedly preparing to retire The X Factor UK in favour of another "big event show".

Bosses at the channel are apparently concerned that they have "become too reliant" on the Simon Cowell contest, which took a tumble in the ratings for its eighth series last year.

"Every television network is always looking for the next big thing. They'd be crazy not to," an alleged senior source told the Daily Star. "X Factor has had a brilliant run, but no show lasts for ever.

"Over the past few years Simon Cowell has been the main source for many of our top hits but some feel that we've got too many eggs in one basket and we've become too reliant on one man."

However, ITV entertainment boss Elaine Bedell - who admitted recently to being "hungry for a big primetime weekend event show" - has said that commissioners have yet to find a format they feel confident about.

"The ideas need to have the production values of The X Factor, Britain's Got Talent and I'm A Celebrity and they need a major piece of talent," she explained.

"We get very few pitches for big event shows. They're risky to commission."

Auditions for series nine of The X Factor UK are currently taking place around the country.

Why did they pick Nicole she was rubbish on the US X-factor. They should have got Kylie to do it

The X Factor became the Axe Factor when 60 contestants were dumped from the show's boot camp section before they had the chance to sing.

Around 200 would-be stars had travelled to Liverpool in an attempt to make it through to the judges' houses round.

But they were gathered on stage at the city's Echo Arena and almost a third were sent straight home by judges Tulisa Contostavlos, Louis Walsh, Gary Barlow and Nicole Scherzinger.

A show source told the Sun: "It was carnage. They were told there would be an important announcement. They went out on stage to face Tulisa, Louis, Gary and Nicole - and then the bombshell. There were looks of shock on people's faces. Even the judges looked upset."

It is believed show supremo Simon Cowell ordered the move amid fears that too many average acts had been put through.

An X Factor spokesman said: "Some of the contestants who got a yes at their first auditions, when seen side by side against the others, were not of a good enough standard."

Shayne Ward, the series two winner of The X Factor, has hit out at his exclusion from a new promo campaign from ITV looking back at the show's history.

The 'Whose Time Is Now' video features Leona Lewis, One Direction, Olly Murs, Alexandra Burke, JLS and Little Mix talking about their X Factor experiences.

Watch the new X Factor trailer below:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=oaas4T5PMzM

Acts including Ward and other series winners Matt Cardle, Joe McElderry, Leon Jackson and Steve Brookstein are not mentioned in the promo.

Commenting on the video on Twitter, Ward said: "Just seen the new X Factor promo video. Yet again it's like I'm being erased slowly from their history.

"Pathetic really. Would love to know why?"

Ward scored two platinum albums after winning the 2005 series of X Factor, however, his third record Obsession only reached number 15 in 2010 and the single of the same name charted at 97.

Meanwhile, Digital Spy readers have complained that the promo made it look like One Direction had won their series of the show, while actual victor Matt Cardle didn't even feature.

Also, Joe McElderry left a cryptic message on Twitter that many fans believed related to the video, writing: "I'm just gonna keep doing my thing :D #thatisall #loveforthemassive."

The ninth series of The X Factor will start next month on ITV1.

Shayne Ward, the series two winner of The X Factor, has hit out at his exclusion from a new promo campaign from ITV looking back at the show's history.

The 'Whose Time Is Now' video features Leona Lewis, One Direction, Olly Murs, Alexandra Burke, JLS and Little Mix talking about their X Factor experiences.

Watch the new X Factor trailer below:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=oaas4T5PMzM

Acts including Ward and other series winners Matt Cardle, Joe McElderry, Leon Jackson and Steve Brookstein are not mentioned in the promo.

Commenting on the video on Twitter, Ward said: "Just seen the new X Factor promo video. Yet again it's like I'm being erased slowly from their history.

"Pathetic really. Would love to know why?"

Ward scored two platinum albums after winning the 2005 series of X Factor, however, his third record Obsession only reached number 15 in 2010 and the single of the same name charted at 97.

Meanwhile, Digital Spy readers have complained that the promo made it look like One Direction had won their series of the show, while actual victor Matt Cardle didn't even feature.

Also, Joe McElderry left a cryptic message on Twitter that many fans believed related to the video, writing: "I'm just gonna keep doing my thing :D #thatisall #loveforthemassive."

The ninth series of The X Factor will start next month on ITV1.

X Factor's ninth series will kick off on August 18, it has been revealed.

Gary Barlow, Nicole Scherzinger, Tulisa Contostavlos and Louis Walsh will start the search for Britain's next great musical star later this month. Spice Girls Geri Halliwell and Mel B, Anastacia, Rita Ora and Leona Lewis were guest judges during the audition rounds.

The show is currently scheduled to air between 8pm and 9.15pm, between a double bill of Ant & Dec's big-money gameshow Red or Black?

Dermot O'Leary returns to host for his sixth series, while Caroline Flack and Olly Murs will present ITV2 spinoff Xtra Factor for a second year.

It was revealed at the weekend that show bosses are considering a new twist to this year's final, which will include the acts duetting with legends such as Amy Winehouse, Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson via 3D holograms.

Previous winners of the talent show have included Little Mix, Leona Lewis, Alexandra Burke and Matt Cardle.

X Factor's ninth series will kick off on August 18, it has been revealed.

Gary Barlow, Nicole Scherzinger, Tulisa Contostavlos and Louis Walsh will start the search for Britain's next great musical star later this month. Spice Girls Geri Halliwell and Mel B, Anastacia, Rita Ora and Leona Lewis were guest judges during the audition rounds.

The show is currently scheduled to air between 8pm and 9.15pm, between a double bill of Ant & Dec's big-money gameshow Red or Black?

Dermot O'Leary returns to host for his sixth series, while Caroline Flack and Olly Murs will present ITV2 spinoff Xtra Factor for a second year.

It was revealed at the weekend that show bosses are considering a new twist to this year's final, which will include the acts duetting with legends such as Amy Winehouse, Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson via 3D holograms.

Previous winners of the talent show have included Little Mix, Leona Lewis, Alexandra Burke and Matt Cardle.

Joe McElderry has insisted that he is fine with being excluded from The X Factor's new advertising campaign.

ITV unveiled its 'Whose Time Is Now' promo last month, featuring Leona Lewis, One Direction, Olly Murs, Alexandra Burke, JLS and Little Mix talking about their success since the show.

McElderry, along with fellow winners Shayne Ward, Matt Cardle, Leon Jackson and Steve Brookstein, were not included in the commercial.

"I'm not on Simon's [Cowell] label so I wouldn't expect him to promote me," McElderry told the Daily Star Sunday.

"If they want to erase the fact I won X Factor or try to hide it, I don't care.

"Personally I am proud I came from The X Factor. If Simon doesn't feel the same then you'll have to ask him why."

Ward recently hit out at his exclusion from the promo campaign.

He said: "Just seen the new X Factor promo video. Yet again it's like I'm being erased slowly from their history. Pathetic really. Would love to know why?"

Gary Barlow and Louis Walsh are to provide one of the more bizarre moments of this year's X Factor auditions.

The rival judges amused the Manchester audience when they danced to Labrinth's 'Earthquake' with a Zumba instructor hopeful.

Both panelists were taught signature moves from the Zumba specialist and "shimmied" their way to a standing ovation.

They eventually returned to the judges' desk to take their places alongside Tulisa Contostavlos and guest judge Mel B.

It was reported in June that Walsh riled the Manchester auditorium when he told the crowd to "shut up" during an exchange with Barlow over a male singer he didn't rate.

The X Factor returns for its ninth series on Saturday, August 18 on ITV1.