Louis Walsh is to return to The X Factor for ninth year, ITV and show producers Thames and Syco, have announced today.
Last month it was confirmed that Take That singer Gary Barlow would also return. ITV says the names of the other judges will be announced later in the spring.
Commenting on his return Walsh says: “I’m back! It’s my ninth year on the show and as the only remaining original judge I’m delighted to take my seat once more on the judging panel.”
Series supremo Simon Cowell added: “The show wouldn’t be the same without Louis, I am really happy he is coming back. I hope he has an opportunity this year to show what an astute manager he is.”
Peter Fincham, ITV’s Director of Television, says: “Louis is, quite simply, an X Factor institution. It’s great to have him back for this year’s run.”
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