New X Factor judges CONFIRMED: Robbie Williams, Ayda Field, Louis Tomlinson join panel
The X Factor 2018 judges have been CONFIRMED for this year’s series.
Robbie Williams, Ayda Field and Louis Tomlinson will be joining Simon Cowell on the panel, it’s been officially announced.
They appeared together for the first time today at a press conference in London.
Arena auditions will begin filming in Wembley later in the week.
Robbie, Adya and Louis have all been rumoured for the show over the past few weeks after big changes were announced for the show’s 15th series.
ITV confirmed last month (June) that alongside Simon, three new judges would join this year’s series while Sharon Osbourne will act as a fifth judge for the live shows.
She’ll act as an “impartial” panellist, Simon said.
Both Nicole Scherzinger and Louis Walsh have quit the series, the channel confirmed.
Show bosses have described the change as ‘the start of a new era’ for the show, which will air its 15th series this year.
Louis Walsh said previously of leaving the show: “I’ve had a fantastic 13 years on The X Factor but the show needs a change and I’m ready to leave. I’m looking forward to another series of Ireland’s Got Talent, going back to my day job as a manager, writing my memoirs and seeing the world!”
Sharon Osbourne added of the changes: “I can’t wait to get back to the judges’ desk. I love the new format.”
Managing Director of programme makers Thames, Amelia Brown, commented: “Louis has been a huge part of The X Factor’s success since it launched and remains a good friend of the show.
“His contribution cannot be overstated. We would like to thank him for all he has given to the show over the years and look forward to continuing to work with him in the future.”
Brown added: “We are very excited Sharon is taking on a new role on the show and we can’t wait to see her as a judge on the live episodes.
“This is the start of a new era for The X Factor. I am really excited about all the ideas we have for the coming series including, of course, the new judging panel.”
The X Factor airs on ITV in the autumn.
