Music mogul Louis Walsh has opened up about his relationship with X Factor judge Simon Cowell, insisting they are still great friends, after Simon axed Louis from the judging panel in 2018.
It follows his recent revelation that he will be returning to the show as a judge, alongside Simon and Nicole Scherzinger, for a celebrity version of the programme.
Speaking to The Sun, the music manager said, "I was sacked and paid off. There’s no hard feelings. I had 13 years [on The X Factor]. I love Simon. Simon’s the best person in the world. I love working with him".
He added, "I used to work with him everyday. The reason Westlife are here is because of Simon. He started this band. He gave us all the hits. He was an amazing A&R guy. Nobody better". BFF GOALS!
Discussing the rumoured line-up for the celebrity version, Louis wouldn't give any clues away of who had signed up for the show, saying, "They won't tell us who the celebs are until they walk out. I heard Gemma Collins, Vinnie Jones, Megan McKenna".
But he did reveal Megan would be a good fit for the show, adding, "I know Megan’s a great singer and we’ll get the best out of them. We’re gonna have great fun".
Swipe through to see the 15 most eccentric X Factor contestants ever
15 most eccentric X Factor finalists ever!
1 of 15Chico, series 2
Finest moment: Chico Time
2 of 15Same Difference, series 4
Finest moment: Wake Me Up Before You Go Go:
3 of 15Rhydian Roberts, series 4
Finest moment: Phantom Of The Opera
4 of 15Jedward, series 6
Finest moment: Ghostbusters
5 of 15Storm Lee, series 7
Finest moment: We Built This City
6 of 15Katie Waissel, series 7
Finest moment: Don't Give Up On Me aka "Sod it"
7 of 15Nicolo Festa, series 7
Finest moment: Just Dance
8 of 15Diva Fever, series 7
Finest moment: Barbra Streisand
9 of 15Wagner, series 7
Finest moment: She Bangs/Love Shack:
10 of 15X_Factor_Series_8_Johnny_Robinson
11 of 15Kitty Brucknell, series 8
Finest moment: Who Wants To Live Forever
12 of 152 Shoes, series 8
Finest moment: Something Kinda Ooooh
13 of 15Rylan Clark, series 9
Finest moment: Spice Girls medley
14 of 15Blonde Electra, series 11
Finest moment: Kids In America
15 of 15Stevi Ritchie, series 11
Finest moment: Livin' La Vida Loca
An All Stars special is also in the works, but a judging panel has not been confirmed as of yet. However, Louis being Louis, has revealed Shayne Ward, Leona Lewis and Alexandra Burke have all signed up to appear on the show.
Fans think this is the revamp the show needed and we cannot wait!
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