Simon Cowell says he is hopeful of David Walliams signing up for Celebrity X Factor.
The X Factor could see a huge shake-up this year, with Simon Cowell recently revealing hopes to air both a Celebrity and All Star version of X Factor, in place of the regular series.
In a new interview, Simon revealed his genuine hopes that a Celebrity X Factor could find a chart topping star.
“In the same way Pete Waterman made Kylie and Jason musical stars, and what I did with Robson and Jerome, I’d like to think through the process we’ll find someone who can sell records rather than just doing the show as a stunt,” he said.
Of potential contestants, Simon told the Daily Mirror newspaper: “I think David [Walliams] might enter, seriously, that would be amazing.”
Other rumoured celebrity contestants include Gemma Collins.
A source told the Daily Star newspaper earlier this year: “We want big and exciting stars and The GC is popular and we reckon she makes entertaining viewing.
“More important, she can sing.”
It’s not the first time The X Factor has hosted a Celebrity series.
Bosses launched an all-star edition of the talent contest in summer 2006, following the first two regular series.
EastEnders actress Lucy Benjamin was voted the winner, beating the likes of Chris Moyles, Paul Daniels and Debbie McGee and, er, Gillian McKeith.
Meanwhile, judge Sharon Osbourne caused controversy with her acid-tongued remarks about Rebecca Loos.
The X Factor: Battle Of The Stars aired over eight consecutive nights to decent ratings, attracting 6million viewers.
From the format to the judges, as yet ITV has not officially announced its plans for The X Factor this year.
However the channel has reportedly agreed an extension of its deal with Cowell for both The X Factor or Britain’s Got Talent.
The current series of Britain’s Got Talent airs on Saturday nights on ITV.
Simon and David are back on the panel together with Alesha Dixon and Amanda Holden.
