Sharon Osborne has given her side of her departure from The X Factor 2018.
Sharon stepped down from the show’s audition stages back in the summer, but was still due to appear as a ‘fifth judge’ during the live shows.
The X Factor said at the time that Sharon had “chosen to take on an exciting new role on the show”, which would see her appear on live episodes alone.
However it was announced on Sunday night that Sharon wouldn’t be returning this year after all. An X Factor spokesperson said: “The X Factor can confirm Sharon Osbourne has decided not to return to this year’s show.
“Sharon will always be a big part of The X Factor family and we wish her all the best for the future.”
Sources put the decision down to an interview Sharon gave recently slating the show but Sharon issued a statement saying she had “decided to pass on the series”.
Speaking to The Sun newspaper, Sharon said: “I’m not going to be quiet for anyone. I’m at the age where I have earned the right to say what I want. “I’m not running for Parliament and if I offend people, fine, then don’t listen, don’t read.
“They say there’s three sides to every story — their side, your side and the truth. Well, here’s my side. I have nothing to hide.”
Sharon explained what happened behind the scenes, with meetings first between her and producers and then with Simon Cowell.
“I was playing it over and over in my mind, but the gut feeling was still, ‘Sorry, it’s just not for me’,” she concluded. “As I said, it just felt very, very awkward to be coming in halfway through something.”
Sharon added: “I’m out and that’s it. I’m not angry with anyone and I don’t regret anything. My life will go on and so will The X Factor. It’s doing great.
“It’s not personal, it’s business. It’s Simon’s show and he can do whatever he wants with it.”
In her previous statement, Sharon wrote on Facebook and Twitter: “This is my official statement regarding X Factor. If it reads differently in the papers then it’s been altered:
“After watching the new season of X Factor unfold, I’ve seen the new judges finding their rhythm and are doing brilliantly. Simon was so gracious to find me a spot on the live shows but at this point I really don’t think I’m needed and I would honestly feel odd coming in at this point. So I have decided to pass on the series this year.
“I wish the show continued success and as much as I love to get my face on TV you will have to do without me this season.
“Loves ya, Mrs. O.”
The X Factor continues this Saturday and Sunday night on ITV.
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