X Factor’s All Star series ‘set to feature an all star line up of judges’

The X Factor’s rumoured All Star series will feature an ‘all star’ line up of judges, it’s been reported.

The potential X Factor All Stars series was announced in February by Simon Cowell.

He revealed ambitions to air both a Celebrity and All Star version of X Factor this year. Simon suggested that The X Factor will air two separate shows back to back this autumn, one seeing celebrities compete and the other featuring a line up of past contestants.

Simon said at the time: “I think it’s going to be huge, it’s the best I’ve felt about this show in years.”

While official details have yet to be confirmed, there have been more rumours about the plans.

They include hopes of an ‘All Star’ line up of judges from past series joining Simon Cowell.

Following the news that Ayda and Robbie Williams had both left the show, it’s reported that the likes of Cheryl, Nicole Scherzinger, Sharon Osbourne, Louis Walsh and even Dannii Minogue could be on their way back.

According to The Sun newspaper, the judging panel could be cut to three – but will be different for the two planned series.

An insider suggested that Louis Tomlinson was unlikely to be a part of either, but could return next year.

“Louis wants to concentrate on his album this year. He also doesn’t like the ideas of judging celebrities and past contestants.

“But we hope he will return to the show as a judge in 2020,” a source said. “Robbie, Louis and Ayda are all part of the X Factor family.”

As for which former contestants could be taking part, so far few have put themselves forward.

Saara Aalto was runner up on The X Factor in 2016 but has said she wouldn’t be returning to any All Star season this year.

“I just did it two-and-a-half years ago so I feel it’s a bit early,” she said. “I’m doing Dancing On Ice and I’m just exhausted. I’ve done so many reality shows now.”

Fleur East has also said no, explaining: “I don’t think I personally would because I did it the first time in 2005 in a group and then in 2014. It went so well, it was so amazing. So a third time, I’d be pushing it a bit, wouldn’t I?”

And Olly Murs is another to politely decline the invitation, telling ITV’s This Morning earlier this year: “I wouldn’t go back on it, no.”

However those that have put themselves forward include former winner Sam Bailey.

“I’d love to go back with other winners and perform again . . . so long as they fed me egg and chips in the canteen!” she said.

The X Factor airs on ITV.