Robbie Williams has been tipped to replace Louis Walsh on The X Factor in 2018.
ITV confirmed this week that alongside Simon Cowell, three new judges will join this year’s series while Sharon Osbourne will act as a fifth judge for the live shows.
Both Nicole Scherzinger and Louis Walsh have quit the series, the channel confirmed.
Louis, who has been on the show for 13 years, said: “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: “I can’t wait to get back to the judges’ desk. I love the new format.”
Show bosses have described the change as ‘the start of a new era’ for the show, which will air its 15th series this year.
As yet, the names of the new judges have not been officially confirmed but The Sun reports that Robbie Williams could be one of them.
The tabloid says that Robbie has been involved in “secret negotiations” and producers are hopeful he’ll sign up.
“Robbie has always been Simon’s dream signing,” a source said. “Now it appears he’s finally going to get his man.”
They added: “There’s a deal on the table and Robbie is keen to do it. The hope is that the deal is days away from being signed and announced.”
As for who else could join, rumours range from former The Voice UK coach Kylie Minogue to One Direction’s Louis Tomlinson.
Craig David and current BGT judge Alesha Dixon – who was a guest judge on X Factor last year – have also been tipped to take part.
Plus, it’s been suggested that former judges Rita Ora and Tulisa may well be back.
Ricky Martin has also been named as a possible new judge.
The X Factor 2018 will air on ITV later in the year.
More on: Robbie WilliamsThe X Factor
