Simon Cowell took to Twitter last night to confirm that, after 11 years, Louis Walsh will not be returning as a judge on The X Factor this year.
The Irish music manager, 62, is the longest serving judge, having held onto his seat since the show started in 2004.
Now Radio 1 DJ Nick Grimshaw. 30, is reportedly being lined up to replace Louis.
A source told the Mirror: “Grimmy is one of the most well connected men in showbiz and will make a brilliant judge.
“It’s clear Cowell’s hope is that he will attract new viewers and artists to the show. He feels fresher and more relevant than some of the previous judges.”
Last night Simon tweeted: “Louis Walsh is one of the good guys. We will always be friends. The door remains open and who knows what’s next…… [sic].”
It has been alleged that Nick has been offered £1 million to accept Simon’s offer, and he could be announced as the newest judge within the next few weeks.
The insider added: “There are complications because Grimmy has a Radio 1 contract with the BBC and will be working for ITV too. But everyone seems confident that something can be worked out.”
It’s thought that Simon and Cheryl Fernandez-Versini will return to the judging panel, but Mel B has been axed.