Louis Walsh has spoken out on those reports he's set to be axed from The X Factor judging panel this year, claiming he's called Simon to insist his current contract's 'watertight.'
“I have spoken to Sharon. She’s said they can only sack us if they pay us
Last weekend it was reported Simon and the show's producers have 'lost faith' in both Louis and Sharon Osbourne since they were 'terrible' on the 2017 panel; with them facing the chop despite being contracted for this year's series.
Louis' having none of it, though; claiming he wants paying out if his contract's broken.
Speaking to The Sun, Louis explained: "My contract is watertight. I’ve checked it out with someone and have told Simon that.
"He has asked me to come and see him in LA.
"Sharon did say she was surprised she hadn’t been given any filming dates. I don’t think they’ve finalised what they’re going to do with the panel."
This all comes after an insider told The Sun: "Louis and Sharon are both contracted to return this year, but Simon and the producers have lost faith. They were both terrible on the panel last year. Louis has had a great run, but he’s advertising hearing aids for God’s sake. It’s beyond a joke.
"And Sharon couldn’t even remember some of her own contestants’ names.
"Nicole was a passionate judge but has no contract and won’t be back this year in order to bring in fresh blood."
![The X Factor judges](https://images.bauerhosting.com/legacy/media/5ac3/443a/41cf/983e/6f9d/0ab2/the_x_factor_sr14_01-e1504102489466.jpg?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
Last weekend, a show source confirmed: "There are no plans for Nicole to return to The X Factor this year. Other announcements about the judging line-up will be made in due course.
"It is possible either Sharon or Louis could still return because both have contracts."