Paranormal investigator Barri Ghai, psychic medium Ian Lawman and paranormal researcher and historian Jayne Harris are the team of ghost-hunters currently helping celebrities who are being plagued by supernatural entities in the second series of Celebrity Help! My House is Haunted on Discovery Plus.

The latest is former X Factor contestant and reality TV star Jake Quickenden, who often tells his social media followers about the bangs, crashes and voices that he and his young family hear in their detached home in rural Essex.

Now Jake’s called on Barri, Ian and Jayne to help him find out who is following, guiding, and sometimes scaring him, everywhere he goes…

Jake's hoping the spirits are his late dad and brother trying to contact him, but he’s in for a surprise when the team reveal that the spooky goings-on are connected to a past life as a soldier in the English Civil War…

This episode is available on Discovery Plus from Friday, March 24.

What To Watch chatted to Jake about why he invited the team to his house, what he discovered and why he’d love to do more shows about the paranormal…

Why did you decide to invite the ghost hunters into your home?

“I’ve always been a huge believer and I’ve always thought that there’s more out there. I’ve also thought there’s something about me, some sort of intuition, because I sometimes get feelings and smells. 

"When the opportunity to do the show came about, there were a few things happening at the house with lights flickering and the TV turning on in the middle of the night, so getting the experts in was a great opportunity to see if it was to do with the paranormal. 

"It was also a chance for me personally to get some answers because I had always hoped that I could speak to people that I had lost or people who are in the afterlife.” 

Was taking part in the show everything you expected it to be?

“It was more than I expected, to be honest. The experts were unbelievable. They answered a lot of questions and made me feel at ease. It was interesting to hear how they deal with things and how they put lots of different things together to get answers. It was really special, actually. I enjoyed it. 

"The shows I’ve done before have mostly been reality based and it’s usually just me messing around, but this was a more serious thing that I wanted to experience. I definitely got a lot out of the show. I was looking to get some answers and I feel that I did.  I’d say to anyone if you get the chance to do something like that, do it.”

What’s it like when the experts come into your home and you hear voices of spirits coming through their gizmos and gadgets?

“It’s mad! It felt like I was in Ghostbusters. It was very surreal. It’s a very strange thing to be sat around a table with a bunch of ghosthunters and then having voices played to you and lights going off. I’m just happy we didn’t do that in the dark because I think I would have wet myself!”

How does it make you feel when the experts say there are spirits present in your home?

“Whenever I’ve been at my house and something weird has happened, I’ve never felt scared or uneasy. I feel like these spirits are there to protect me and guide me and look after me. I always think I’ve got someone there to watch me to make sure I don’t do anything stupid. I like to think that whoever is with me is kind and loving and there to help me.” 

Your mum Lisa is a believer, too. Tell us about her.  

“My mum’s a huge believer! Probably more than me. She goes to mediums, does tarot cards and is, I think, quite in tune with the spiritual world. I think it must have rubbed off on me a little bit because I’ve got some of that intuition as well. When you go through loss and you lose someone it makes you want to believe more and also want to see those people again. Whether or not that is true, it can only be a good thing if it gives people some solace and peace.”

You must have people around you who are sceptical of your beliefs…

“You know what, you always get sceptics. I think you have to be open to it because there are so many things in this world you can’t explain. I’m sure some of my mates will watch the show thinking ‘Jake, you don’t half chat some rubbish!’ You’re always going to get people who have their doubts, but that’s just their opinion and you can’t change that. It won’t change what I believe either.” 

In the show you explain how you hope that the spirits in your home are your late dad and brother trying to make contact with you. Tell us a bit about that… 

“It’s great that I got some of the answers I was looking for and it’s really made me open up more about my experience of grief. One of the reasons I did the show was that I had never really dealt with my grief. Everything I am doing now, like this show and podcasts where I talk about losing loved ones with other bereaved people, has helped me deal with that grief. Getting the experts in gave me some beautiful answers and I now believe that my dad and brother are both watching over me. I feel like I’ve got two guardian angels there helping me and guiding me. That’s the best feeling you can have when you have lost someone.”

You also discover that you have a past life as a soldier and share a connection with a spirit in your home…

“It’s weird. I never expected that to happen. I was open to anything but when the experts started saying certain things, I thought, ‘This is crazy!’ I can’t remember anything that happened when I regressed into my past life. It felt like a minute, but I was under for about an hour. When I was a kid, I had visions of a battle, so when the experts told me what had happened when I went under, it made sense.” 

Would you like to do more shows about the paranormal?

“I’d love to do more and find out more about it. I wanted to do something to do with the paranormal before this show came along. I’d love to do something with mum, because she’s a believer, too. She’s seen things and heard things. I think she’d like to do what Ian does. I’m quite happy just knowing that there are spirits around us. I don’t really want to be seeing them while I’m having a bath!”

Tell us about some of the other things you’ve got lined up…

“I’m doing some presenting, stuff for Lorraine and Loose Women, and stuff like that which is great because I wanted to get into TV presenting. I’m also doing a show I can’t speak much about because no one is supposed to know about it, but that’s coming up later this year. So yes there are some nice things in the pipeline. I’m just concentrating on being a dad and taking every day as it comes. I think that’s the best way to live.”

Thirteen years after finding fame with X Factor boyband One Direction, Harry Styles was the man of the moment at the BRIT Awards 2023 with Mastercard on Saturday night, winning all four awards he was nominated for, including the hotly contested best album.

Following on from his recent triumph at the Grammys in Los Angeles, where he scooped best album for Harry's House, Harry — who opened the show with an energetic performance of his hit single As It Was — bagged the gongs for artist of the year, best pop/R&B act, best album and best single for As It Was.

What To Watch managed to bag a ticket to the star-studded event, hosted by comedian and The Masked Singer 2023 panelist Mo Gilligan and broadcast live on ITV from London's 02 arena. And if the reaction from the enthusiastic crowd was anything to go by, it came as no surprise that Harry would clean up.

Upon collecting his award for artist of the year, Harry gave a nod to the ITV talent show that made his name more than a decade ago, thanking his mum for "signing me up for X Factor without telling me", and his fellow One Direction bandmates Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson, Liam Payne and Zayn Malik.

Throughout their tenure, One Direction picked up seven BRIT awards out of twelve nominations, including the gong for Global Success in 2013.

This year's BRIT nominations saw no women up for best artist, following the organisers decision last year to scrap the best male and best female categories in favour of gender-neutral prizes.

"I'm aware of my privilege up here tonight," Harry said, name-checking the female performers who'd missed out on the artist prize, including Mabel, Florence Welch and Becky Hill.

All was not lost for Becky, though. The singer — who found fame on the very first BBC One series of The Voice UK in 2012 — won the award for Best Dance Act.

Visibly sobbing as she collected her statue, Becky paid tribute to her manager, Alex, who "funded me when I was 18 just off The Voice, who saw me through getting dropped from [one] record deal, then starting my own record deal and signing to Polydor."

Becky then let her talent do the talking as she closed the star-studded event with a spectacular performance of Crazy What Love Can Do, alongside X Factor 2012 alumni Ella Henderson and producer of the year, David Guetta, which also featured Eurovision 2022 runner-up and best new artist nominee, Sam Ryder.

For details of all the BRITs 2023 winners click here.

Strictly Come Dancing fans are thrilled Fleur East has "finally" got what she deserves after the X-Factor scored a perfect 40 points in Blackpool week!

The fans took to social media to share their delight that Fleur has finally got the recognition they think she needs, after a tricky few weeks.

Fleur and her partner Vito Coppola danced their couple's choice routine this week, to a Destiny's Child megamix.

Fleur channelled her inner Beyonce as she took to the floor in a glittering silver jumpsuit.

And she and Vito wowed the judges and the fans alike with their fabulous dance!

Fleur and Vito have had a tricky few weeks in the competition. They've faced the dance-off twice and fans were convinced the judges were being unnecessarily harsh on the singing star.

But this week, they finally put all that behind them as they stunned the judges with their couple's choice routine.

Judge Craig Revel Horwood said the dance was "FAB-U-LOUS!" while head judge Shirley Ballas said it was "iconic".

Motsi Mabuse said Fleur was the missing member of Destiny's Child.

And Anton Du Beke echoed the thoughts of many of the viewers when he said this was what we'd all been waiting for throughout the whole series.

The judges' comments were reflected in their scores with Fleur and Vito scoring the first perfect 40 of the series!

Even Craig dusted off his 10 paddle.

Wonders will never cease!

The fans agreed that Fleur had done them proud. 

One viewer said: "About damn time queen"!

While another added that they'd smashed the dance.

And one fan simply said: "About freaking time!"

One fan said what we were all thinking, writing: "Fleur came to Blackpool and she SLAAAAYED."

We couldn't agree more! 

The X Factor could return to our screens in 2023 after a five-year hiatus, but it might not be coming back to its usual home on ITV. 

According to The Daily Star, Simon Cowell is planning to revive the series next year and "recapture the magic of the show", but it's not yet known where the rebooted version of the singing competition would be on air.

A source told them: "'It has been decided that the time is right to bring it back. It's really exciting. Everyone who will be working on the new series can't wait to get started.

"Things are in the early stages at the moment. But the wheels are definitely in motion. It is hoped that production will begin at the end of the year."

They added that Simon has been having "secret conversations" with a production company about his plans and has reportedly "struck a big-money deal", but exact details have not yet been confirmed and ITV has not publicly commented on the planned reboot.

Previously, a TV insider spoke to The Sun about the show's future, saying: "Globally, it is still a phenomenon and rakes in millions every year. But in the UK, there is no question it has become slightly stale. 

"Simon remains at the top of his game and knows how to make a hit. He owns the rights to the show, and it's his call — not ITV's — whether or not he drops it."

So far, there's not a lot to go off but it seems like there's interest in bringing The X Factor back after a hiatus and we'll keep you updated with all the latest information about the talent show when we know more.

The X Factor first arrived on our screens back in 2004 with original judges Simon Cowell, Sharon Osbourne and Louis Walsh. Other judges throughout the course of its fifteen-season run included Gary Barlow, Cheryl Cole, Nicole Scherzinger and N-Dubz's Tulisa.

Previous winners of the competition have included Little Mix, Joe McElderry, Shane Ward, Matt Cardle and Leona Lewis, who have gone on to have careers in the industry, and now we could be on the hunt for our next pop sensation in 2023.

The X Factor used to air on ITV but currently, it is unavailable to watch on-demand.

Phill Whittaker’s ex-wife turns up on the street in Monday night's episode of Coronation Street (8pm see our TV Guide for full listings). 

Convinced Mimi is faking her injury, Evelyn tells Fiz she thinks she is part of a plan to sabotage the wedding. When Hope’s bridesmaid dress gets covered in wine and Mimi blames Cerberus, Evelyn sees red. As a slanging match ensues, Phill Whittaker is annoyed with Fiz for not giving Mimi the benefit of the doubt over Evelyn. 

On the street, they are both stunned when a beautiful woman steps out of a car and introduces herself to Fiz as Camilla, Phill’s ex-wife. Phill is baffled as to why she has turned up but tells Fiz he can't wait to marry her and Camilla is no threat. 

Meanwhile, Tyrone battles with his feelings for his ex and spurred on by Kevin he decides he needs to tell Fiz how he feels before it is too late. How will Fiz react?

Audrey is discharged from hospital and Gail’s perturbed when she insists on going straight to the Rovers to celebrate. When Elaine reveals she’s planning on holidaying at the Italian lakes, Gail suggests she picks Stephen’s brain. 

Later, Stephen talks to a smitten Elaine about Italy and she hangs on his every word.

Spider reveals to Toyah that he and his fellow activists are planning to occupy the disused Nuttall’s Brewery building as a base for an upcoming protest. Toyah’s keen to get involved but Spider’s wary of her risking arrest while on bail. 

Realising there’s still a way she can help, Toyah hatches a plan to get hold of the key from the desk at the Bistro. 

Also, Aaron admires a vintage car on the garage forecourt and when Kevin admits he’s struggled to diagnose the fault, Aaron reckons it’s a blown gasket. Kevin’s scathing of the uninvited opinion but he’s forced to eat his words when he’s proved right and Aaron’s thrilled when Kevin offers to train him up as a mechanic. 

Aaron tells Summer that his new job means they can afford all the holiday excursions she wants and needn’t go near a beach. Delighted by the reprieve, Summer takes her insulin.

Amy informs Steve of a leaky ceiling at No.1 and Steve blames Jacob’s cowboy burglar mate for making a botched job of the roof repairs. 

Later, Ed collars Steve and reveals that No.3’s roof is also leaking.  

Coronation Street continues on Wednesday at 8pm.

Rylan Clark reveals he got so low in 2021, after his split from husband Dan Neal, that he took himself to hospital “for safety reasons”.

The popular presenter of Big Brother’s Bit on The Side, Ready Steady Cook and Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two and much more told the Observer that after they called time on their marriage, he stepped away from television for four months and the trauma of his life caught up with him.

“I’m the last person that my friends would ever believe could feel as low as I did,” he said. “Superficially, on paper, I can look after myself, but actually in that moment and for months after, none of the money or the fame mattered. I did not know myself at certain points. I was having thoughts and doing things that made me… f***** up, for want of a better word. I didn’t understand why I was doing that to myself. So, I went away for a bit.”

Admitting himself to hospital was the last chapter in a whirlwind decade that began when he made The X Factor finals and then won Celebrity Big Brother. He became very public property and the entertainer, whose real name is Ross, lost control of his life.

“It’s really strange talking about this, because I’ve not even spoken about it to my friends. I just never thought I could get that ill,” he says of his breakdown last year.

When he walked away from presenting Eurovision and shut down his TV persona, he didn’t know whether or not he wanted to return.

 “I’d got to the point where I didn’t know if I wanted to come back. Or whether I would be able to do this job again. I’d got… quite ill,” he said.

“I went down to just over 9st and I’m 6ft 4in. It got bad. Like, very bad. And I didn’t think it would get better. I needed help.”

Rylan revealed the heart of his problems lay at the point “Rylan”, the public entertainer, ended and “Ross”, his real identity, began.

He explained: “Everyone feels like I’m their mate. I was probably talking to five million people a night. But last summer for the first time, I literally felt alone … I’ve always been strong. I’ve always taken a lot of shit. And this is where Rylan and Ross come into play. Because when it’s Rylan I’m a brick wall. You can take the piss out of my teeth, call me a c***, and I’ll just go, that’s fine. This is what I get paid for. But when it’s Ross, I don’t deal with that well. And when you find out something you always wanted isn’t what you thought it was…”

Rylan feels like he’s turned a corner. He’s had his teeth redone, put the weight back on and got a new hairstyle.

Recovering from his breakdown, Rylan has a new perspective and is less hungry for fame. He’s learnt a lot... “That I always say yes to everything and I nod and smile. But now if there’s something I really don’t want to do, I’m going to say no. I’ve learned to be more in control. I’ve not had control for so long, I feel like Britney.”

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The X Factor has effectively been axed from our screens after ITV confirmed there are no plans for its return.

Following reports that the hit reality show wasn’t coming back for a significant time, ITV revealed that a new series wasn’t in the pipeline. 

“There are no current plans for the next series of The X Factor at this stage,” said the broadcaster in a statement.

Given the statement, there must be some doubt over whether the series will ever return. Back in 2020 it was revealed that Simon Cowell was resting the show and that now looks like that could be a permanent rest.

The X Factor hasn’t been on screen since 2018, having originally started way back in 2004. If this truly is the end for the reality show it can always point to the number of careers it launched. 

Perhaps most famously X Factor launched One Direction, despite the fact the boys ironically didn't actually win the show! They came third in 2010, having been put together after originally auditioning as solo candidates.

Other notable bands launched by the show include Little Mix and JLS. While solo stars have included Leona Lewis and Alexandra Burke.

It also launched the career of Rylan Clark-Neal, who’s gone on to become a huge TV personality.

X Factor, though, was watched as much for its great acts as its terrible auditions — of which there were many!

It also had a huge number of judges on its panel over the years including Louis Walsh, Sharon Osbourne, Simon Cowell, Cheryl, and Kelly Rowland to name a few.

At its peak, X Factor was drawing an audience of nearly 20 million, but it struggled to match those heights in later years and began to seem tired.

But, maybe one day Simon Cowell and ITV will be tempted to bring the reality show back with a fresh revamp.

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This post contains spoilers for Legends of Tomorrow "The Ex-Factor."
Check out our last review here. 

The Legends are back this week with a wildly popular reality TV show and the current Zari in her element. The hunt for Sara Lance is put on hold while the Legends head to Los Angeles 2045 to ensure Zari's ex — DJ D'Smore Money — doesn't get offed by a rogue alien named Lord Knoxicrylian (henceforth Lord Knox because that spelling is probably very wrong) on the set of his reality show, Da Throne. 

Worry not, Sara (Caity Lotz) fans! "The Ex-Factor" doesn't forget about our captain. In fact, it gives her a fun little plot twist as she discovers that the world she and Gary (Adam Tsekhman) are trapped on happens to be one occupied by Ava (Jes Macallan) clones. Predictably, Sara handles this information much better than the panicked Gary who realizes he's eaten several of his boss' clones. Poisoned or not, Sara knows a fake of her future wife when she sees them!

We don't quite understand why Lord Knox is on Earth, we just know that his pod crash landed on the planet and he thinks his problems are solved by killing Earth's leader. Lucky for Earth and D'Smore Money, Ava is able to convince the alien that the way combat works on our planet is by beating the best on the planet in a talent competition. Enter Zari (Tala Ashe) and her dragon lady empire! Her influencer status is exactly what the Legends need to take down their complicated new enemy, but conflict with Constantine (Matt Ryan) ends up putting the mission more at risk than necessary. (So, y'know, pretty standard Legends of Tomorrow fare!) 

"The Ex-Factor" is a complete return to form for the series. The premiere was good, last week was better, but this? This is the exact kind of hot nonsense that you use to show people what Legends of Tomorrow is all about. Whether it's Zari and Constantine teaming up for a song about their emotions that meshes her pop-vibe with his punk roots or Mick Rory (Dominic Purcell) struggling to parse through big emotions, "The Ex-Factor" is exactly what this show is all about.

Speaking of Dominic Purcell, he got to deliver more than one on-the-nose line about both the series and his feelings about Hollywood this week. Impressively, both deliveries will leave viewers laughing regardless of how obvious they are. "This place is like a revolving door," and "watch me" in response to the fact that he can't just fire on Hollywood could have been pulled directly from the Instagram post about the star's departure. Capping it all off with his unintentional smooshing of the tiny, fluffy alien that piloted Lord Knox's metal suit was a true coup de grâce.

Less obvious (but still completely delightful) is "The Ex-Factor"s decision to avoid the will-they-or-wont-they of most CW Shows (including Legends more often than not) and having Zari and John simply agree that they're in a relationship now. The unlikely couple have no idea what to do with one another, and they're terrified of the decision they've made, but that's what makes the plot point so fun. It's so refreshing to see the episode stow the typical dramatic antics and just let a cute thing be cute. We've got enough drama with Sara off world, we don't need interrelationship team angst to add to the mix.

The delay of returning Sara to her team is the episode's only weak point. The Legends of Tomorrow team certainly has a point here — and hopefully it'll be more interesting than what they did over on Supergirl's midseason finale — but whatever they're doing just isn't engaging in any way. Even the reveal that Gary's been an alien this whole time is lost in the mix of "this could be fun but this just doesn't work with prolonged team separation."

Former X Factor stars Little Mix - aka Jade, Leigh-Anne, Jesy and Perrie - reveal all about their hot new talent search to find the next big thing...

Little Mix exploded onto the music scene in 2011 as the first group ever to win ITV talent show The X Factor.

Since then, the pop quartet - Perrie Edwards, Jesy Nelson, Leigh-Anne Pinnock and Jade Thirlwall - have bagged countless awards, enjoyed a string of No.1 hits and sold 50 million records worldwide, making them one of the biggest-selling girl groups of all-time. But, as far as they’re concerned, nothing beats performing to a live crowd on one of their sell-out tours.

Having been brought together as soloists on The X Factor, Little Mix - whose hits include Shout Out To My Ex, Wings and Power - are all in agreement that their success lies in being a four-piece and that, when they perform as one on stage, that’s where the magic happens.

So now, nearly 10 years on from when they were first discovered, the pop princesses are looking for ‘incredible singers to form a new band’ - could be a boy band, a girl group or a mixed group - to support them on stage on their next tour as they kick off BBC1’s brand-new talent show, Little Mix: The Search, which starts on Saturday night.

Here, we chat to Little Mix - Perrie, Jesy, Leigh-Anne and Jade - about giving the next generation a taste of their success…

What makes Little Mix: The Search different from other talent shows?

Leigh-Anne: "This is different from other shows because we’ve been in their shoes and lived this experience, so we've got a lot of knowledge to give them." Jade: "Yeah, we’ve been in this industry nearly 10 years now, so we know what we're talking about." Jesy: "When a person is nervous, it can completely take over their vocals and sometimes you don’t hear their full potential. As singers, we understand that, but I don’t think other shows always take that into consideration."

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You kick off this week with The Search for a boyband. What kind of judges are you?

Jesy: "Ha, ha! I think we all bring something completely different to the table. We’ve all got different tastes in terms of what we look for in a vocalist and in a group." Leigh-Anne: "I’ve realised I'm far too sensitive, I need to stop crying." Perrie: "I’d say I'm fair but also a bit picky. And I didn't think we’d disagree so much…" Jade: "There has been a divide at times when some of us have said ‘yes’ to someone and the rest of us have said ‘no’. It’s been quite daunting having to say ‘no’ to people - I think all four of us have lost sleep knowing we’re shattering someone’s dreams!"

You all give very tough critique during the Rehearsal. You seem to know exactly what you’re looking for when it comes to putting these groups together…

Perrie: "That just comes with the experience of being in a group for so many years; we know the dynamic, we know what works and what doesn't. We hit the jackpot when we got together because of our chemistry, our friendship, everything - and to think initially it was all based on our height! So, as mentors, we had to watch for every little thing when coming to a decision of who to have in a group."

Why is it important these hopefuls get to do a ‘concert audition’ before you choose the final band?

Jesy: "Because then immediately you see who’s made for the stage and who isn’t. Some people crumble on their own in the audition room in front of us but then they get on the stage with their other band members and instantly they’re like born performers. When I auditioned for The X Factor as a soloist, I was so nervous but when I got with the girls I was like a new performer. It’s crazy how three other people can make you feel different on stage."

What five things make a great band?

Jesy: "Chemistry, passion, hard work…" Leigh-Anne: "Talent…" Jesy: "And friendship." Perrie: "When we met on The X Factor, we were all on the same wavelength from the get-go. We soon became best friends and then, when we sang together, it was unreal. We were the same kind of girl with the same mentality of wanting the same thing and wanting to work hard for it. None of us could have achieved any of this without each other."

The live shows - hosted by Chris Ramsey - were postponed due to lockdown. How are you feeling about The Search going live?

Jade: "Well, lockdown has meant that the bands have had even more time to gel and work out exactly who they want to be as a band. We’ve done a few Zoom calls with each of the bands and we’re like proud mums, seeing what they’ve been rehearsing. So, in terms of building a connection as a group, they’re probably at an advantage because they’ve had months to rehearse. So there’s no excuses really, when the live shows come around, these bands should be ready to go!"

Little Mix: The Search starts on Saturday September 26 at 7pm on BBC1 (see our TV Guide for more shows to enjoy).

The X Factor is kicking off the search for a new boy band or girl group to be a big as One Direction or Little Mix. Host Dermot O’Leary reveals more…

The X Factor has provided the launch-pad for some of the world’s most successful groups with the likes of One Direction, Little Mix, JLS and, in the US, Fifth Harmony selling more than 400 million records. Show boss Simon Cowell is now on the hunt for the next big pop group to sign to his record label to follow in their footsteps.

The X Factor: The Band will travel the length and breadth of the UK to find the best solo singers. Those who stand out will be invited to audition at Sony’s London HQ in front of The X Factor judges, who’ll select girls and boys to form two bands just like they did with Little Mix and One Direction. Both groups will then battle it out to be crowned The Band.

Host Dermot O'Leary, 46, tells us more about The X Factor: The Band…

What can you tell us about The X Factor: The Band?

"Simon Cowell and The X Factor have discovered some of the biggest pop groups in recent music history; One Direction, Fifth Harmony, Little Mix – they’re all stars and have sold millions of records! So, for this series, we’re scouring the country to find the best solo singers to put together into two bands – one girl group and one boy group!"

What makes this series different to what we may have seen previously on The X Factor?

"In previous years, you’ve seen the judges put individual singers into a group – usually with their decision-making and reasoning off-camera – but this time people will get to see the process take place. The judges will select girls and boys to form new bands, just like they did with One Direction and Little Mix, then both bands will go head to head to be crowned the winning group with a live arena finale in Birmingham!"

We’ll see the bands being put together across just three pre-recorded shows. Can it be done?

"Well, they’ll certainly be up against it, as they’re not giving the bands much time. But if anyone can do it, we can do it.

Are you looking forward to heading to Birmingham for the final?

"It’s always nice to get out and take the show around the country. We did the final in Manchester a few years ago, which went really well. It’s always nice to get out and see other places and you get a full sense of the whole country being involved as well. I'm looking forward to it!"

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You must feel so proud, being there at the start, just as the careers of bands like One Direction and Little Mix took off…

"I’m incredibly proud. The most exciting thing is to see them grow as people and turn into artists. I love it when they come back and we get to see how they've progressed in the last year or so. You feel very proud. And it’s the same on the radio show, you feel very proud you can give people a leg up."

What’s the best and worst thing about hosting The X Factor?

"The best thing is that you never know who’s coming round the corner. I like people: meeting them and interviewing them. And then hosting a primetime show is just wonderful. I think saying goodbye to acts you've grown quite close to is hard. That's probably the toughest thing."

What are the challenges when The X Factor goes live?

"It’s very exciting. A lot of live telly is actually quite predictable, and it doesn’t really need to be live. The unpredictability of The X Factor is one of the best things about it!"

The X Factor: The Band starts on Monday December 9 at 8.30pm and continues on Wednesday and Friday, with the final on Sunday December 15 on ITV.

Can The Vixen triumph?

The Chase star Jenny Ryan, aka The Vixen, has shared a hilarious picture of herself ahead of Saturday’s X Factor: Celebrity final on ITV.

Jenny, who’s been a huge hit with audiences, tweeted a snap of herself with a sign contestants are given when they need to give their voice a rest! Or, maybe when people what them to stop talking?!

“Now modelling the attractive sign the vocal coaches make you wear when you need to preserve your voice (or possibly when they just want a bit of peace and quiet)."

Earlier this week, Jenny revealed on Good Morning Britain that being on the X Factor: Celebrity had been a challenging experience.

“It’s been tough. It’s been a lot of graft because I’ve been recording The Chase at the same time as rehearsals, choreography, a lot of background filming to go with this usual behind-the-scenes stuff,” she said.

She also revealed it had been nerve-wracking being pushed out of her comfort zone. “I’ve got used to being on The Chase and keeping nice and calm and that feels like comfort now compared to being in the spotlight and being on stage.”

WHAT IS ON TONIGHT? Check out our NEW and improved TV Guide

Judge Louis Walsh revealed that he admires how Jenny and co have performed on The X Factor: Celebrity, saying: “It really has been much more fun because you don’t expect to have The Vixen from The Chase, Vinnie Jones or Martin Bashir, for example, enter a singing competition that IS all about the singing.

“These celebs are really putting their necks on the block. It’s not an easy thing to go out there and sing and be judged by the public and by the judges.”

Megan McKenna is the strong favourite to win, but Jenny clearly has a chance. Meanwhile, Jenny will be back in her comfort zone next year as ITV has announced The Chase spin off, Beat The Chasers, which will see all five chasers compete together for the first time.

The X Factor: Celebrity is on ITV this Saturday at 7.10pm.

It's the final of The X Factor: Celebrity on Saturday night, and judge Louis Walsh can't wait to see who's going to clinch that all-important record deal…

Ahead of The X Factor - Celebrity final, judge Louis Walsh reveals which celebs he thinks can achieve singing stardom...

How has The X Factor: Celebrity felt like a different show to the regular X Factor – aside from having celebrities, of course!?

Louis Walsh: "It really has been much more fun because you don’t expect to have The Vixen from The Chase, Vinnie Jones or Martin Bashir, for example, enter a singing competition that IS all about the singing. These celebs are really putting their necks on the block. It’s not an easy thing to go out there and sing and be judged by the public and by the judges."

How much are you looking forward to Saturday night’s final? Any surprises we can expect?

LW: "The final will be brilliant fun. I'm thrilled to have Megan McKenna there. I think this is the start of a whole new career for her. She’s really dedicated and I love that she cares so much. The surprise about this show is that all the celebrities can sing and they are really taking it seriously."

WHAT IS ON TONIGHT? Check out our NEW and improved TV Guide

Looking back on the series, which celebrities have you enjoyed watching each week?

LW: "I’m delighted to have had Megan in my category, she has the potential to be a real artist. She’s a great songwriter and she’s really into her craft and the music. Kevin McHale was so good and so professional; he never let me down. And girl group V5 are great – they’re going to have an amazing career."

Which acts do you think have really 'made' the competition? Who couldn’t you have imagined the show without?

LW: "Vinnie Jones was so different, he is someone you want to see. Is he going to have a big career in music? Probably not. But he brought something different to the show."

How has being a judge on this series compared to previous series?

LW: "This panel of myself, Simon and Nicole is great, I love it. We all know each other very well, we all have opinions, we all know who we like and who we’re looking for. It just really works. I would’ve loved Sharon Osbourne to have come back, too. That would’ve been the icing on the cake!"

There’s a recording contract up for grabs for the winner. Who do you think really has what it takes to make it as a recording artist?

LW: "I think Megan, V5 and the twins, Max and Harvey, are the ones who are going to have a music career after this show. I think No Love Lost will still do really well as well. I’ve loved this show. I’d love to see it come back next year!"

The X Factor: Celebrity final can be seen on Saturday November 30 at 7.10 on ITV.

Louis Walsh might have been dropped as an X Factor judge twice before, but he's wangled his way back on to the judging panel for this year's spin-off series, X Factor Celebrity.

And the Irish star - who is basically part of the furniture when it comes to X Factor - has claimed Simon Cowell has finally realised that he needs right-hand-man Louis to keep the wheels turning.

Speaking ahead of the first X Factor Celebrity live show tonight, Louis said: "Simon has tried this before and it didn't work, but this feels like a completely new show and he may not want to admit it but deep down he knew he needed me back."

READ MORE: WILL BRENDAN COLE BE ABLE TO 'BITE HIS TONGUE' ON X FACTOR?

Poking fun at Simon's changing face, Louis added: "He always realises in the end. I think he doesn't like the fact I've had less plastic surgery than him, and me being on the panel is a constant reminder."

Louis was initially replaced on the X Factor judging panel in 2015 by Nick Grimshaw after claiming he wanted to focus on "full-time music management." Rumours quickly started circulating that he'd been sacked from the show, but Louis came out and said he'd quit.

READ MORE: WHY CELEBRITY X FACTOR'S JENNY THOUGHT IT WAS THE END OF THE ROAD

The 67-year-old returned in 2016 before formally quitting again in 2018 - when he was replaced by Louis Tomlinson. On his decision to hang up his X Factor boots, Louis said: "The show needs a change and I'm ready to leave."

But, with the new celebrity format announced earlier this year - it seemed Louis was high not just on Simon's list of people to bring back, but his son Eric's too.

"Even his son wanted me back," Louis confessed. "Simon phoned me and said Eric told him, 'Can you bring back Uncle Louis?'"

Although the new format - which has seen the likes of Megan McKenna, Brendan Cole and The Chase's Jenny Ryan audition for the chance to win a recording contract - has proved popular on Twitter, it has been crushed in the ratings battle with Strictly Come Dancing.

In its opening week X Factor Celebrity peaked at 5.3 million with the numbers rising to 7 million over a week. But these figures dropped to 4.3 million during the second episode. While rival BBC show, Strictly, drew an audience of 10 million.

As the celebrities sing live for the first time for YOUR votes, can The Chase star Jenny Ryan prove she's got The X Factor?

After a surprisingly powerful rendition of Queen's Somebody to Love at The X Factor: Celebrity auditions a few weeks ago, The Chase's Jenny Ryan seemed a dead cert to make it through to the live shows.

So it came as a huge shock when, last weekend, Overs judge Nicole Scherzinger told Jenny she hadn't made the final cut. Fans were up in arms and, following an outpouring of public outrage, show boss Simon Cowell made a dramatic U-turn and invited Jenny to join the other 12 celebrities as the live shows begin on Saturday night. The Vixen is back, folks!

Jenny, 37, talks to whatsontv.co.uk about getting the chance to keep her singing dreams alive...

How does it feel to be through to the live shows?

"When we all auditioned at Simon Cowell’s house in LA, I had no idea how the judges were going to make a decision to cut anybody because it was a really competitive line-up. I thought it could be the end of the road for me, so to be told I was going to progress to the live shows was an immense relief. Although, if I hadn’t made it through, I think my mum would have had words with Simon!"

On Saturday night, you’ll be performing live alongside, among others, ex-EastEnders’ actor Jonny Labey and US talk show host Ricki Lake. Are you nervous?

"In theory, I should be comfortable in a studio environment but the difference between this show and The Chase is the live aspect of it. There’s absolutely no room for error! As for nerves, we’re here to prove we’re worthy of being a recording artist. So if I can’t handle this show I probably won’t handle performing all over the world!"

You’re known on The Chase as your alter ego The Vixen. Will she emerge in your performances on this show?

"I definitely think The Vixen helped me in my first audition; she allowed me to be unafraid of the situation and to be a little bit cheeky with Simon and the panel. But part of this journey is about showing the side of me that isn’t The Vixen. She’s my armour and my mask when I’m on The Chase – but I want to show there’s a lot more to me when you take all that away."

Will The Chase host Bradley Walsh and the other ‘Chasers’ be supporting you?

"Absolutely. I think the other Chasers want to appear as my backing singers. I know Anne Hegerty can definitely carry a tune! I do need to pick Bradley’s brains a little bit because he is Mr Showman. He’s got a brilliant voice and he’s a great performer. So I’ll hopefully get half an hour when I can have a coffee with Bradley and get some tips."

What would it mean to you to win the show and bag that all-important record deal?

"It would certainly be a real twist in my career path, considering where I was just a few years ago before joining The Chase. I was working behind the scenes on TV shows writing quiz questions and I’d just sing every now and then on the karaoke. Winning would be validation for me, particularly in how I’ve come to terms with some mental health issues. I’m more resilient now. I’ve learned that if you have faith in yourself and don’t give up, you can do anything!"

The X Factor: Celebrity continues on Saturday October 26 at 8.20pm.

Builder Woody played Jake Quickenden, arrives in Chester and Cindy Cunningham is delighted to get down to business with him!

Builder Woody (played by X Factor and I’m A Celeb star Jake Quickenden) makes his debut in Hollyoaks on tonight at 6.30pm (See our TV Guide for full listings).

Woody has been hired by Cindy Cunningham (Stephanie Waring) to start construction on the underground tunnels that she’s planning to transform into her new business enterprise.

Cindy can’t resist doing some serious flirting with builder Woody but is the feeling mutual?

An impatient Cindy tells Woody she’s not interested in following all the rules and building regulations and instructs Woody to crack on with the job.

Meanwhile Charlie is curious when he sees what’s going on in the tunnels and decides to do some exploring of his own. He’s excited to enter the underground labyrinth but when he hears Woody and Cindy arrive on the scene he hides.

Elsewhere, killer Breda McQueen (Moya Brady) hasn’t been able to get to the pig farm recently to give her prisoner, Tony Hutchinson (Nick Pickard) any food.

Growing weaker by the hour, Tony is suffering but is he about to be discovered?

Goldie McQueen, who has grown increasingly worried about her mum’s strange behaviour, is convinced she has Alzheimer’s and has bought a special tracking device in order to keep tabs on her. When Breda sets off for the pig farm, Goldie secretly follows her, but is Goldie about to unearth a whole lot more than she expected when she turns up at the deserted site?

Plus Luke Morgan (Gary Lucy) meets up with his son Ollie (Aedan Duckworth) and pitches him an idea about going into the restaurant business together. However he makes a big faux pas that leaves his son reeling. What has Luke gone and down now?

Hollyoaks is shown weekdays on C4 at 6.30pm with the next episode following on E4

Stacey Solomon has confirmed that she will be returning to The X Factor.

The Loose Women panellist has said that she will be making a comeback on the show that propelled her into fame back in 2009.

The TV host took part in the sixth series of the singing show competition, coming in third place behind winner Joe McElderry and runner-up Olly Murs, who has since been working as a TV presenter.

And now the former singer has confirmed that she will be returning to the entertainment show in some sort of capacity, after receiving a phone call from show-runner Simon Cowell.

The mum-of-three has revealed that she will be appearing on special show X Factor: All Stars, however has said that she won’t be taking part in the competition as she “doesn’t fancy competing”, but still wants to be involved somehow.

“He [Simon Cowell] did get in touch, so I would definitely support X Factor in any way that I can,’ she said to Express.co.uk.

“I don’t fancy competing,” he continued. “I was nervous back then, I don’t know how I would be 10 years later!

“But I want to support the show because I love it.”

Stacey also opened up about her current success, saying that she owes it to the ITV singing competiton.

“It’s the only reason I’m doing what I’m doing today so without that I wouldn’t even be able to be here,” she said.

“So yeah, I definitely want to do something with it.”

New show X Factor: All star will involve former show winners and finalists competing to be crowned the ultimate winner of the singing show.

Each episode will see a selection of the acts performing week by week and then one act from each episode will be put through to the final.

Stars that we could see back on the stage include, Leona Lewis, Alexandra Burke, Shayne Ward, Jedward and James Arthur.

Former Strictly Come Dancing pro Brendan Cole swaps dancing for singing as he teams up with actor Jeremy Edwards for The X Factor's brand-new spin-off...

In a brand-new take on the ITV singing show, The X Factor: Celebrity sees famous faces from the world of TV, film, music, sport and social media singing their hearts out in a bid to be crowned champion and bag a life-changing record deal.

Dermot O’Leary is back as host and judging the stars’ vocal talents will be Nicole Scherzinger, Louis Walsh and, of course, Simon Cowell.

As the auditions kick off at Simon’s home in Malibu, Los Angeles, the celebrities hoping to impress include ex-EastEnders actor Jonny Labey, US talk show host Ricki Lake, journalist Martin Bashir, TOWIE star Megan McKenna and duo Cole & Edwards – aka former Strictly pro Brendan Cole and ex-Hollyoaks actor Jeremy Edwards.

WHAT IS ON TONIGHT? Check out our NEW and Improved TV Guide

"I love to sing, I love to be on stage and I love to perform, so it’s a natural thing for me to want to do it," says Brendan, who was a Strictly favourite for 15 series. "I'd been in that show for such a long time. Now, the opportunity to be part of a big, big show, a chance to be out of my comfort zone, it was a no brainer!"

MORE: Strictly's Motsi 'ready' for Craig Revel Horwood

During his time on Strictly, Brendan was never afraid to answer the judges back if he felt their verdict on his performance was unfair. So how might he react to one of Simon’s famously barbed put-downs?

"I can’t promise I’ll bite my tongue," admits Brendan. "But you’ve got to know your place in the chain, and my place in this chain is not, 'I know what’s best'. When judges critique my dancing and I think differently, that doesn’t go down too well with me. But I’m not a professional singer, so if the judges have got critique, then I’ll have to suck it up, even if I disagree with it!"

The X Factor: Celebrity stars on Saturday October 12 at 8.35pm.

Strictly Come Dancing's sister show, It Takes Two, is getting a shake-up this year as Rylan Clark-Neal steps in to share presenting duties with Zoe Ball.

But how is it going to work?

The former X Factor star was thought to be presenting alongside Zoe. But, with the 48-year-old now presenting the BBC Radio 2 breakfast show, Rylan revealed she wanted to take a "step back" - meaning he will host two shows of his own.

Opening up about his new gig on This Morning, Rylan explained: "Me and Zoe are sort of sharing duties, she's doing the Breakfast Show on Radio 2.

READ MORE TV NEWS

"She just wanted to take a step back. It's a lot of work doing early mornings and nights as well."

Appearing to give away a little secret, Rylan, 30, added: "I might as well just say it - I'm going to be doing Mondays and Tuesdays, Zoe's doing Wednesdays and Thursdays, and we're both doing Friday, which is amazing. It starts in two and a half weeks."

Having spent most of his career so far presenting on Channel 5 and ITV - including Big Brother, Celebrity Big Brother, This Morning and the new Supermarket Sweep reboot - Rylan described his new BBC gig as "crazy".

"It's crazy. We did the launch show on Monday, the red carpet," he said. "The couples get paired up today... Obviously you'll see it next Saturday. It's amazing. You know what it's like, it's a machine, that show."

Rylan has rarely left our TV screens since his career sky-rocketed after appearing on X Factor back in 2010. And he's thrilled to be joining the Strictly Class of 2019.

MORE: HEAD JUDGE SHIRLEY REACTS TO NEW STRICTLY STAR MOTSI MABUSE

"I'm very lucky," he said. "I’m extremely honoured to be joining such a television institution and can’t wait to bring a lot of mischief to the Strictly bubble."

Strictly Come Dancing 2019 returns with the launch show on September 7 at 7:40pm on BBC One.

Former X Factor singer and Dancing on Ice champ, Jake Quickenden enjoys his first day filming on Hollyoaks and explains why the role is a dream come true

Former X Factor singer, Jake Quickenden spent his first day filming on set at Hollyoaks this week as workman, Woody, and as these sneak pictures of  him in character show, he's in fine shape as he works the high-viz and tool belt look!

Singer and performer, Jake, who was a runner up in I'm A Celebrity in  2014 and was later crowned winner of Dancing on Ice in 2018, filmed alongside fellow Dancing on Ice alumni, Stephanie Waring who plays fiery Cindy Cunningham in the soap.

Speaking about his first day on set, Jake, whose scenes will air in October, ready for Hollyoaks nail-biting stunt week said: “It’s very exciting and it’s a privilege. Hollyoaks is such an amazing show and it’s been around for so long; to be asked to come and have a role on it, it’s amazing."

The star continued, “I’m really happy. I’ve had a great day and everyone’s so sound. It’s nice to arrive somewhere new and know someone like Steph [Waring] too, she’s made it really easy to fit in.”

Jake, who has more recently been touring in the UK production of Hair The Musical, was actually linked to a role in Hollyoaks last year and when he addressed the rumours on Lorraine  admitted that he would "jump" at the opportunity to appear on the Channel 4 soap if asked.

Speaking on the morning show he said, "You know what I'm just so happy to get amazing opportunities handed to me.

"I used to work in McDonalds and now I'm doing an interview in my bed. If something like Hollyoaks came up I would jump on it, that's all I'll say."

Jake isn't the first X Factor contestant to experience life in Hollyoaks. Former contestant, Rachel Adedeji  first appeared on the soap as Lisa Loveday in 2016 and is soon to be involved in some dramatic storylines.

Hollyoaks is shown weekdays on C4 at 6.30pm with the next episode following on E4

Jake has swapped singing for soaps as he joins the Channel 4 show following last year's rumours...

Former X Factor singer Jake Quickenden is set to join the Hollyoaks cast.

Jake, who has appeared on a number of other reality shows since first finding fame on the ITV talent series, will be joining the show later this year to play the role of a builder.

According to The Sun, the 30-year-old's episodes will air throughout autumn - and may tie in with stunt week.

Last year, he was rumoured to be appearing on the Channel 4 soap and told Lorraine Kelly during an appearance on her chat show that he would "jump" at the opportunity if asked.

"You know what I'm just so happy to get amazing opportunities handed to me," he said.

"I used to work in McDonalds and now I'm doing an interview in my bed. If something like Hollyoaks came up I would jump on it, that's all I'll say."

The singer first appeared on The X Factor in 2012 when he got to the judges houses stage, but Nicole Scherzinger ended up picking This Morning and Big Brother host Rylan Clark over him.

Jake returned to the ITV show in 2014 and made it through to the live shows, but was axed from the competition in the third week.

MORE: Hollyoaks spoilers: Sinead O’Connor struggles when she gets some upsetting news

He went on to release an EP titled I Want You in 2015 and an album the following year.

In 2014, Jake also headed into the I'm A Celebrity Get Out Me Out Of Here jungle and finished in second place.

He appeared on Dancing on Ice last year alongside professional skater Vanessa Bauer, and the pair went on to win the show.

Could she be Simon's latest signing?

Louise Redknapp has revealed she'd be keen to join the X Factor judging panel, but wouldn't dream of competing on the show for fear it would ruin her career.

Louise, 44, has just finished a three-month stint in the hit Dolly Parton musical - 9 to 5 - and is already eyeing up her next career move.

And, after rubbing shoulders with the main man at his annual Syco summer bash, Louise could be preparing to sign on the dotted line.

"I love the X Factor, I think it’s brilliant, I would definitely be up for being a judge on it. For sure.

"If Simon can make it happen that would be great."

Having taken part in X Factor's biggest Saturday night rival, Strictly Come Dancing, would Louise consider competing on the celebrity version of X Factor - rumoured to be coming this year?

MORE: THESE JUDGES ARE MAKING A DRAMATIC RETURN TO X FACTOR

“I don’t think that would be the right thing for me at this point in my career, but judging is a different idea entirely. That could work well," she confessed.

Louise's confession comes weeks after she admitted she was "scared" and "nervous" about her future, after hanging up her West End boots to pursue her solo career.

Despite being in a "good place" with ex-husband, Jamie Redknapp, Louise said: "I don't know what life is going to be like. I'm nervous about work and career... because I'm not young. And people are judgemental."

MORE: SIX SECRETS FROM THE BRITAIN'S GOT TALENT SET

The mum-of-two has just released a new solo track, Lead Me On - produced by pop sensations Clean Bandit - and the Eternal singer has high hopes the music will be received well by fans.

"It'd be nice for the music to do well enough to be able to tour next year," she said. "I hope people are going to like it... I'm just going to give it what I've got."

Louis Walsh and Nicole Scherzinger could be returning to The X Factor as judges for the THIRD TIME after both being dropped from the show.

The pair are said to be in the final stages of talks with Simon Cowell to make a sensational comeback for this year's All Stars series.

Louis, 66, and Nicole, 40, were axed last year when Simon trialled a brand new set of judges, including One Direction's Louis Tomlinson, Robbie Williams and Ayda field.

But, it was a risk that didn't pay off as the show suffered its lowest ratings in 14 years - forcing Simon, 59, to overhaul the format.

X Factor: All Stars could see famous faces - including the likes of Meghan McKenna, Caroline Flack and Gemma Collins - battle it out to win a record deal. So it's no surprise two of its most iconic judges are returning too.

And while Louis is thrilled at the prospect of returning to The X Factor, he's keen for his pal Sharon Osbourne to get in on the action too.

"Sharon would be great. She's burnt a few bridges, but that's what’s good about her – she has an opinion. She's never boring or predictable," he said.

On her fall-out with Simon, Louis added: "She was only joking. It was all panto talk. They will make up. I'm going to mediate between them. I'll do anything necessary."

But, sadly it looks like it will take more than Louis mediating to persuade Sharon to return to The X Factor.

"Nobody's asked me, but no. It's a part of my life that I absolutely had the best time, met great, amazing people," she admitted.

"Had the best fun, was naughty, had a laugh. But that part of my life is gone, and you can't go back. So I have to move on for myself."

Could this be the X Factor's newest judge?

Since it's debut in 2004, the X Factor has had lots of famous faces on its judging panel, from former Destiny's Child star Kelly Rowland to Sharon Osbourne.

Each season there's always some secrecy around which four icons will judge, causing lots of speculation from fans and theories to spiral.

And after Robbie Williams and Ayda Field announced they were stepping back from the show after joining last year, the bookies have been tipping their favourites  to replace the couple, with one star coming out on top - Little Mix's Perrie Edwards!

The singer won the show with her three bandmates Jesy Nelson, Leigh-Anne Pinnock and Jade Thirlwall in 2011.

And now it looks like Perrie Edwards could be set to choose the 2019 winner as one of the judges.

At Ladbrokes, the 25-year-old's odds have tumbled from 6/1 to just 10/11 over the last 24 hours.

Alex Apati of Ladbrokes said, "Perrie's odds of becoming a judge are shortening by the hour, but the odds point towards two Louis' being on the panel later this year."

Perrie is also a favourite with Coral, who believe she will be joining Simon Cowell and Louis Tomlinson to judge this year's competition.

"It will be all change on the judges’ seats on X Factor this year after Robbie and Ayda left the show and all the early money in our betting has been for Perrie Edwards to take up one of the spots on the panel" a spokesperson at Coral revealed.

Others in the running to be a judge on this year's show, include Simon's Britain's Got Talent co-star Alesha Dixon and former panellist Cheryl.

With all three ladies having incredible backgrounds in the music and entertainment industry, it sounds like Simon could have a very tough decision to make this year.

We can't wait to see who he chooses!

X Factor winner Dalton Harris has revealed he could be forced to leave the UK and head home to Jamaica just days after winning the show.

X Factor champion Dalton Harris has revealed he could be forced to leave the UK and head home to Jamaica just days after winning the show.

The Jamaican singer, who beat Scarlett Lee and Anthony Russell during Sunday night’s dramatic final, told how his visa only enabled him to stay in the UK for the duration of the show.

He told The Sun: “I need to get a new visa. I will have to leave the UK for a bit as you’re not allowed to just stay forever.

“Hopefully my visa will be sorted out quickly. I had a visa that allowed me to compete in the show, so I’d be surprised if the Government didn’t give me one now I have won.”

The revelation comes after reports emerged that Harris may not secure the same £1 million recording contract previous winners have been offered.

But he is expected to be offered a recording contract with music mogul Simon Cowell’s label Syco.

The £1 million record deal is believed to previously have been used to market the winner’s single, which traditionally made it to the Christmas number one slot.

Harris also appears to be on the ladder to success with his winner’s single, Power of Love, already hitting the number one on the iTunes chart.

The star recently revealed that American singer Fergie offered to “adopt” him after they met at Kensington Palace last month.

He told Metro: “Fergie was so kind, she told me she wanted to adopt me! It made me laugh. I used to live on the streets, and there I was standing in the palace!

“Afterwards she sent me a vegan candle. I’m interested in becoming vegan and had been talking about it with Fergie, so it was nice she remembered.”

Former X-Factor star and Brookside actor Ray Quinn joins Hollyoaks as a friend of Ste's, Sinead's past is exposed and will Breda McQueen kill again? Watch the explosive new trailer with all the winter action...

There will be plenty of explosive new drama heading to Hollyoaks in the run up to Christmas when Ray Quinn, who shot to fame in Liverpool soap, Brookside as troubled schoolboy Anthony Murray,  joins the cast playing Ste's friend Jonny.

Thirty-year-old Ray, who was a runner up to Leona Lewis in The X Factor 2006, and was also crowned champ of Dancing on Ice in 2009, arrives in Chester later this month as Jonny who teams up with his old pal Ste (Kieron Richardson) to help him with his vendetta against Misbah Malik.

When Ste vows that Misbah, who accidentally killed his sister Tegan, deserves everything she gets, Johnny tells Ste he's on his side. Will the pair prove to be a dangerous duo?

Meanwhile killer Breda McQueen  looks set to take another life in the run up to Christmas and Sinead's humiliated when vicious Donna Marie (Lucy-Jo Hudson) exposes her true colours during a school nativity play! Plus with love triangles spiralling out of control and a winter wedding in the offing, the scene is set for an explosive couple of months as secrets and lies reach a head.

Watch the explosive new Hollyoaks winter trailer here...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=idkGq3Y4YBY

Will Breda kill again?

Goldie is charged for murdering Russ, although it was actually her mother, Breda who killed him. Despite writing a letter saying ‘I am the killer you’re looking for’, it seems that Breda might kill again as she is seen standing over a lifeless body saying, “sorry, bad dads don’t get second chances” … Meanwhile, Mercedes and Sylver share a kiss and Christmas doesn’t go to plan when Mercedes presents a burnt turkey and pours gravy over Goldie’s head.

Sinead is humiliated by Donna Marie

Sinead was never going to make a quiet return to the village and, in the trailer, she can be seen warning Sienna away from her husband, Laurie as well as being exposed as a former prostitute by newcomer, Donna-Marie (played by Lucy-Jo Hudson). Viewers know that Sienna has dreams of becoming a teacher, while Laurie also has ambitions to be the new deputy headteacher at Hollyoaks High. Will they become more than work-mates or is Sinead worrying over nothing? Meanwhile, Donna-Marie takes great pleasure in revealing Sinead’s past to the audience and Laurie at the Nativity play, with Sinead dressed as the Virgin Mary.

Mandy visits Luke in prison

As Mandy and Darren try to look forward to their first Christmas together and the arrival of their baby, there seems to be trouble in paradise with Mandy worrying that it all might be too much for Darren to handle. She visits Luke in prison but what does she have to tell him?

Winter wedding bells? Leela proposes to Louis

Leela is unaware that Louis is already married to Simone’s sister, Martine and that he’s been sleeping with Simone behind her back. She proposes to him and he accepts but will he become a bigamist before he gives up one of his ladies?

Romeo betrays Prince and lies to Lily

Lily is confused by Prince’s cagey behaviour but it’s Romeo that Prince confides in when he reveals that he’s found a lump. However, this doesn’t seem to stop Romeo in his bid to win Lily’s heart as they’re seen kissing and Romeo tells her that Prince is seeing someone else.

Yasmine begs Misbah to come clean

Yasmine is desperate for her mum to stop making excuses for Imran’s abuse. She shows her mum that he’s been hurting her too by lifting up her top to reveal the bruises on her stomach, leaving Misbah appalled. Misbah goes to the police station but will she find the strength to tell the truth and get Imran the help he needs?

The music mogul has revealed when the series will end

Simon Cowell has confirmed when the final of this year's X Factor will take place, and it's not that far away.

The music mogul revealed that the ITV reality show will come to an end in just three weeks' time.

However, it seems the 59-year-old actually did so by accident.

After being blown away by Dalton Harris’ incredible performance on last night’s show, Simon let slip about the final.

"I have a feeling we'll be seeing you in three weeks for the final," he told Dalton as he praised the contestant.

Viewers were shocked to discover that the show would be coming to an end much earlier this year, as it usually finishes in mid December.

Despite there only being three weeks left, there are still ten contestants battling it out on the show, which means double eliminations will need to continue in order for there to just be four acts in the final.

Viewers took to social media after Simon’s revelation to discuss this year’s early final.

"Did he say the final is in 3 weeks? #XFactor," one person wrote, while another added: “Final... 3 weeks... Bit early ain't it? #XFactor"

A third person added: "Can’t believe final is three weeks away. No wonder ratings are down. It’s no longer the big show that takes over autumn and winter.

"Back to basics. Bring back the razzle-dazzle. Bring back the proper boot camp. We want to see the journey #xfactor."

Looks like there'll be a bit of a longer race to bag that Christmas number one this year...

As Olly Murs gets ready to release his sixth studio album next month, the one-time The X Factor runner-up is hosting a celeb packed pub lock-in!

Pop star and The Voice UK coach Olly Murs will release his sixth studio album, You Know I Know next month. To celebrate, he'll be starring in his own ITV special, Happy Hour With Olly Murs.

In the one-hour special, Essex-born Olly will head back to his old 'hood to take over an entire pub and put on a jam-packed night of games, chat and performances of all his biggest hits in the company of a specially invited audience of friends, family and famous faces including his 'showbiz dad' Bradley Walsh and some surprise special guests still-to-be-announced.

Big Brother presenter Emma Willis will be the resident Karaoke Queen as she hosts special singalongs for any game guests that choose to step up to the mic and entertain the crowd.

Olly's fellow The Voice UK coach Sir Tom Jones will be dropping in to join in the fun and there will be a very special exclusive duet from Jennifer Hudson and Olly.

As well as his classic hits, Olly will perform songs from the new album, including his latest single Moves.

https://youtu.be/wogS2WPp-0g

"We know how to throw a proper party back in Essex," says Olly who was runner-up on The X Factor almost ten years ago. "So I’m looking forward to welcoming everyone into my world to join me and my family for what will be a fun night in/night out for all. I can’t wait!"

Happy Hour With Olly Murs will be shown later this year on ITV

For one night only! Robbie Williams will perform with former Take That bandmates Gary Barlow, Mark Owen and Howard Donald.

The X Factor judge Robbie Williams will reunite with his former Take That bandmates Gary Barlow, Mark Owen and Howard Donald at the London launch of their musical The Band, which is based around the boyband's greatest hits.

The Band has become one of the most successful theatre tours ever since it started in September 2017. Now it is transferring to London's West End at the Theatre Royal Haymarket.

"The show is a fantastic night out and has turned out better than we could have ever hoped," Gary told The Evening Standard. "The story will definitely surprise people who are seeing it for the first time. We’re so proud of it."

All ticket profits from the special gala night on December 4th will be donated to the Elton John AIDS Foundation which works in 23 countries to combat the stigma around the HIV virus, provide treatment and assistance, and motivate governments to help end Aids.

Elton's husband David Furnish will co-host the event at the Theatre Royal Haymarket.

The Band, set in 1992, follows five teenage year girls who reunite after 25 years apart and try once more to fulfil their dream of meeting the boyband whose music became the soundtrack to their lives.

The Band includes such Take That hits as Never Forget. Back for Good, A Million Love Songs, Greatest Day. The Flood, Relight My Fire, Shine and Rule the World.

Robbie last performed with Take That last year for the finale of BBC One's talent competition, Let It Shine, with contestants competing for a chance to star on stage in The Band.

https://youtu.be/ZzSgpsw04O8

The Band will run at the Theatre Royal Haymarket until January 12

TV Times top picks for tonight

What’s on telly tonight? Here the TV Times team of expert reviewers highlight the best shows on Saturday 15th September

Killing Eve. 9.15pm, BBC1

Doctor Foster’s Jodie Comer and Grey’s Anatomy’s Sandra Oh go head to head in this gripping eight-part spy thriller. Created by Fleabag star Phoebe Waller-Bridge, the drama is centred on MI5 officer Eve Polastri (played by Sandra), who finds herself on the trail of a ruthless killer, code-named Villanelle (Jodie). After learning the person responsible for a string of high-profile killings across Europe is a woman, bored agent Eve makes it her mission to catch Villanelle. What unfolds is a dangerous cat-and-mouse game between the two women. Cracking stuff! All eight parts will be available on BBC iPlayer after this episode has aired on BBC1. Rating: ****

[Check out our interview with Jodie Comer about Killing Eve]

The X Factor, 8.25pm, ITV

We’re only a few audition shows in but we already have our favourites among this year’s hopefuls. We were thrilled Danny Tetley got the chance to blow Simon’s socks off with his impressive vocal performance after being rejected 17 years ago on Pop Idol. And, after taking us back to our youth with the 1990s dancefloor classic Dreamer, it seems Janice Robinson is now an early favourite to win the whole contest… Rating: ****

Strictly the Best, 7.10pm, BBC1

We’ve already had a tantalising peep at 2018’s Strictly line-up when the celebs were matched with their professional partners last week, but to whet our appetites for the their dancefloor debuts next Saturday, this nostalgia-fest commemorates the past 15 series by looking back on some of the show’s finest moments. Jeremy Vine, Deborah Meaden, Ruth Langsford, Molly King, Daisy Lowe, Nancy Dell’Olio and Judy Murray are among those sharing their memories of donning spray tan and sparkles to battle for the glitterball trophy, and they also offer up tips for this year’s gang. Rating: ****

More previews tomorrow.

Two of ITV's biggest shows could be moving channels...

Simon Cowell has revealed he's had offers from several other major TV channels to air Britain's Got Talent and X Factor if ITV choose not to renew his contract.

That leaves the music mogul in a TV channel bidding war once his contract expires at the end of 2019.

“Well to be honest with you it’s really difficult. I’ve got three offers on the table this month from broadcasters who want to do a deal on this show [X Factor] and on Britain’s Got Talent.

“I mean they are proven brands and they bring in the right audience so that has never been an issue."

Hinting that he knows how much the two reality shows - which have produced the likes of One Direction and Diversity - are worth, the 58-year-old said: “We’ve turned down bigger deals in the past but all I’m saying is we know the audience it brings in and what it looks like in advertising."

With this year's X Factor line-up - which features new judges Robbie Williams, Ayda Field and Louis Tomlinson - having come under fire, Simon confessed his main priority is the audience.

“But funnily enough," he explained. "I have never been concerned about not getting a new deal. My concern is more of a personal thing to make sure the audience don’t get bored with it."

“Luckily the public still like these shows and they’ve liked them for longer than we ever thought. We’ve never had a problem selling the show.”

With the show in its 15th series, Simon admitted he has no plans to retire any time soon.

"Oh forget it. No, I mean the good thing is the shows do well, they’re fun, and they’re producing talent, which is the most important thing. So why would you walk away from that? I wouldn’t."

He's got a point!

New X Factor judge Louis Tomlinson, 26, said he has “grown up fast” since appearing on the show as a contestant.

New X Factor judge Louis Tomlinson said he has “grown up fast” since appearing on the show as a contestant.

The singer, 26, made his name on the ITV programme in 2010 as a member of One Direction.

Tomlinson is the first former X Factor star to have a permanent judging panel role and will appear alongside fellow newcomers Robbie Williams and his wife Ayda, as well as series mainstay Simon Cowell.

In an interview with The Sun, Tomlinson admitted he was a “cocky little s**t” when he started with One Direction but his experiences since then – including the death of his mother – have helped him grow up.

He said: “I’m conscious about the way I’ve changed in the eight years since I was on the show. I’ve grown up fast, because I now have a lot of responsibility on my shoulders.

“I’ve always been quite thick-skinned and I owe that to where I come from but also growing up in the industry, which is a very humbling thing.

When I first came into the band, or when I was 17 say, a year before the band, I was a cocky little shit.”

Tomlinson found fame in the 2010 edition of The X Factor alongside bandmates Harry Styles, Liam Payne, Zayn Malik and Niall Horan.

In 2016 he lost his mother, Johannah Deakin, to leukaemia, aged 43.

Earlier this week he said it was “surreal” to be on the other side of the judging panel and that he feels he has a “duty of care” for the contestants.

He added: “I think it also helps having me there, I don’t think they have ever had anyone on the panel who has auditioned for the show.”

New X Factor judge Robbie Williams will take centre stage during his first appearance on the new panel as contestants line up to audition.

Robbie Williams takes centre stage during his first appearance as a judge on the new series of The X Factor.

Robbie joins his wife Ayda, One Direction star Louis Tomlinson and head judge Simon Cowell on the new-look panel of the ITV series on Saturday, as viewers get their first taste of the show’s audition stage.

The former Take That star will be seen getting up on stage to accompany singer Andy Hofton for a duet at London’s Wembley Arena to perform an impromptu rendition of Robbie’s solo hit Angels.

Viewers will also see Hofton perform a self-penned number called Castle of Love, which he reveals he offered to Robbie’s former bandmate Gary Barlow.

Pop star Robbie is also left fighting back tears as he is transported back to a “messy” time in his life by American singer Janice Robinson.

Robinson, who had a hit in 1994 with Dreamer alongside Italian house duo Livin’ Joy, returns to The X Factor for another shot at the big time.

In his first time as a judge on the singing show, Robbie pulls no punches while delivering his verdict on acts he is less than impressed by.

The 44-year-old tells one act that they have no identity, while commenting that another looks like they have come “to pay a parking fine”.

X Factor boss Cowell, meanwhile, is visited by a ghost from his past when he is confronted by bar singer Danny Tetley from Bradford.

Tetley auditioned for Cowell’s former show Pop Idol 17 years ago, but was rejected because of his appearance.

Tomlinson, who finished third on the show in 2010 with One Direction, receives some home comfort when 17-year-old Charlotte Lee reveals she studies at a college close to Tomlinson’s old school in Doncaster.

Viewers will also be given a glimpse of Sunday’s episode as the judges drive in together, singing along to Dolly Parton and One Direction, in which Robbie urges Ayda not to sing over 9 To 5 as she will “spoil it”.

Tomlinson is seen sitting somewhat awkwardly next to Cowell, who plays one of his band’s songs as they negotiate the drive-through at a fast food restaurant.

The X Factor returns for its 15th series at 8pm on Saturday on ITV, with the second episode airing on Sunday at 8pm.

It's all-change at The X Factor as Robbie Williams, Ayda Williams and Louis Tomlinson take up their seats alongside Simon Cowell on the judging panel. As the auditions begin on Saturday night, the newbies lift the lid on what to expect...

Robbie Williams, Ayda Williams and Louis Tomlinson on why they've got The X Factor…

The X Factor returns on Saturday night with a new-look judging panel that needs almost no introduction. Sitting alongside show boss Simon Cowell this time are multi-million-selling recording artist and former Take That star Robbie Williams, Loose Women panellist – and Rob’s wife – Ayda Williams, and One Direction star Louis Tomlinson.

"We've tried to get Robbie on every show we've ever made in 18 years and Ayda interviewed me in Los Angeles and it was the funniest interview ever; together they are insane," says Simon. "Louis has been a contestant on the show, he's a great guy and really talented. I think all the boxes have been ticked and I’m excited."

As the auditions get underway at London's Wembley Arena, Robbie, Ayda and Louis tell TV Times what’s in store…

Robbie, why did you want to join The X Factor panel this year? And are you happy to be working with your wife?

Robbie Williams: "There are literally MILLIONS of reasons to be on the panel this season. Ha, ha! The biggest reason for me is to find Britain’s best talent. I’ve done tour, promo, tour, promo for nearly 30 years – five albums with Take That and 12 albums of my own – now it’s time to branch out and start something different and this is the perfect vehicle to do it. Ayda’s been my rock for the past 12 years; she’s looked after me through thick and thin. It will be interesting for people to see us together."

Ayda, there’s been criticism you’re not from a musical background. Do you see yourself as the underdog?

Ayda: "I’ve had enough experience with Rob’s career and my own career to make a difference to these contestants. Personally, I’ve auditioned for things for years and I’ve been through all the highs and lows, so I have a huge amount of empathy for them. If it wasn’t a challenge it wouldn’t be as much fun, so I’m happy to be the underdog. And the fact Rob and I get to work together – and against each other – is cute."

How competitive are you both?

Rob: "Extremely. I’m more competitive than she is." Ayda: "He gets competitive when we’re reading bedtime stories to our kids!"

Robbie, Ayda, Louis and Simon alongside X Factor host Dermot O'Leary

Louis, you found fame on The X Factor with One Direction in 2010. What was it like sitting on the panel for the first time having started your career on that stage??

Louis: "On the first day it was as surreal for me as the contestants auditioning. It was a proud moment for me, definitely. Having done the show myself, I can empathise with and understand people in that situation. I think it’s important that these singers have someone who’s been through the process who can tell them: ‘It’s gonna be alright!’"

How are you all getting on with Simon?

Ayda: "We've started to pick up on Simon’s game, if we say something smart or have an idea, Simon repeats it and knows his version will make the edit. Louis and I keep referring to each other as the good people on the panel, the kind ones, we’re book ended by two Doctor Evils!"

So what’s the talent been like this year?

Rob: "We've got a very strong show, from the silliness to the whimsy, to the actual gold-plated talent. I am finding that, with the auditions, the thing that’s worse than being terrible is being average. You see a lot of average. But I can also happily say I’ve been blown away more than a few times."

Robbie, your Take That bandmate Gary Barlow was a judge on the show from 2011 to 2013. Will you be asking for tips?

Rob: "When Gary was on the show I was jealous. Then when I saw him do incredibly well, I was even more jealous because he did a great job being a judge. Gary was an excellent judge, so if there's anybody's ear I'm going to be bending, it'll be his."

Robbie reckons he'll definitely be asking his former Take That bandmate Gary Barlow for tips

And Louis, have the One Direction boys been in touch since you landed this job?

Louis: "I got a couple texts from the lads, yeah. I’m sure between ’em they might be fighting for that seat at Judges’ Houses, so we’ll see about that."

How confident are each of you about being the winning mentor?

Rob: "Give me any category and I’m confident I can win!" Louis: "I’m really competitive! It was only during the last few days of auditions it dawned on me that this is a competition and I’d like to win it!" Ayda: "My message to the other judges is watch out! I’m coming for you like a hungry wolf, don’t underestimate me. The boys think they've got it because they were in Take That or One Direction or because they have been running the show for 20 years. No, the underdog is coming to take the prize!"

The X Factor starts on Saturday September 1 at 8pm on ITV.

Gary Barlow and Robbie Williams pic: Rex

The search for the next music superstar gets under way, featuring a brand new judging panel of Robbie and Ayda Williams, Louis Tomlinson and Simon Cowell

Do not adjust your TV sets… The X Factor has an all-new judging panel as the search begins for Britain’s next big singing sensation.

Sitting alongside show boss Simon Cowell this time are pop superstar Robbie Williams, Loose Women panellist – and Robbie’s wife – Ayda Field, and One Direction star Louis Tomlinson.

And as the auditions kick off at the SSE Wembley Arena, it seems the panel are settling in nicely.

‘All three of the new judges have had no problem disagreeing with Simon,’ says Dermot O’Leary, who returns as host.

‘It becomes more of a battle on the panel, which is healthier for the show.’

'We’ve got a very strong show, from the silliness to the whimsy, to the actual gold-plated talent,' adds Robbie.

'I am finding that, with the auditions, the thing that’s worse than being terrible is being average.'

'You see a lot of average. But I can also happily say I’ve been blown away more than a few times.'

The auditions continue tomorrow.

TV Times rating: ****

Former The X Factor judge Cheryl is returning to TV alongside Glee star Matthew Morrison for BBC One's new Saturday night talent show, The Greatest Dancer.

Girls Aloud and former The X Factor judge Cheryl is returning to TV in BBC One's new Saturday night talent contest, The Greatest Dancer, which will showcase some of the most brilliant movers and shakers from around the world.

The series will be presented by Alesha Dixon and Jordan Banjo, and former Glee star Matthew Morrison and Strictly Come Dancing's Oti Mabuse will join Cheryl on the judging panel of superstar Dance Captains.

The show will feature a host of talent from across the world of dance from ballet to jazz, hip hop to Bollywood as they give the performances of their lives in the hope of being named The Greatest Dancer. But who'll make it through from the audition stage to the live shows, where they will be mentored by one of the Dance Captains and hope to take their dance act all the way to the final.

"I’m so excited to be part of The Greatest Dancer!" said Cheryl who has launched a successful solo career since Girls Aloud went their separate ways. "I’m looking for acts with real passion, who are going to push boundaries and give it their all, no matter what challenges are thrown at them. From my own dance background, I know the dedication and commitment dancing takes, I can’t wait to get started."

Meanwhile Matthew, who busted some serious on screen moves as high school teacher Will Schuester in Glee and has since appeared on Broadway in Peter Pan musical, Finding Neverland said:

"This is such a powerful moment for me. It’s wonderful to continue bringing music and dance into peoples’ lives like we did on Glee.  Dance is a safe haven that allows us to communicate where words cannot.  It’s an expression of love and empowerment, driven by all the emotions that make us human.  I love being exposed to people who are pursuing art, and expression, and I look forward to being a moving force for good on their journey. As a Dance Captain, my sincere hope is that I can uplift and encourage all the dancers here reach their greatness."

Oti, who has appeared as a professional dancer on Strictly since 2015 adds: "I’m looking forward to finding a dancer who can elicit emotion from the audience, I know how it feels to be on the other side and to be judged and critiqued for your dance or choreography. I’m looking forward to being able to find amazing new talent and help them unlock their greatest potential to become the best dancers they can be, and win the competition. I can’t explain how excited I am to be a part of this show."

Auditions for The Greatest Dancer are currently underway and the series will be shown on BBC One next year

One-time The X Factor judge Dannii Minogue is back on Aussie TV as the host of a new talent show Dance Boss alongside ex-Home and Away star Sharni Vinson

After plenty of squabbles with the likes of Simon Cowell, Louis Walsh and Sharon Osbourne during her time as a judge on The X Factor, Dannii Minogue is finally the one calling the shots, this time as host of a new Australian talent show, Dance Boss.

The series, which starts Down Under in August, sees teams of ordinary folk leave their everyday jobs to show-off their moves on the dancefloor, competing for a prize of $100,000.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y-R_1qPnxR0

Dannii will be joined by a trio of judges who include ex-Home and Away star Sharni Vinson (who played Sally and Flynn's foster daughter Cassie Turner between 2005 to 2008), Coyote Ugly star Adam Garcia and Timomatic from Australia's Got Talent.

"I am beyond excited to be back on Australian soil and surrounded by the contagious spirit of dance," says Sharni, who went on to appear in the hit dance flick Step Up 3D after leaving Summer Bay.

Meanwhile, Adam is something of a dance pro himself, having performed in West End musical Saturday Night Fever and as a judge on Sky 1's reality show Got To Dance.

"I'm really excited to be a part of this brilliant new show that celebrates the love and passion Aussies have for dance and all the different things dancing gives them. And we're going to share that love around to everyone."

No news of a UK air date, but Dance Boss clips are available on social media.

After being unveiled as a judge on this year's X Factor, Robbie Williams has admitted he had an attack of the green-eyed monster when his former Take That bandmate Gary Barlow was on the panel...

Robbie Williams has admitted he was "jealous" of Gary Barlow's tenure as judge on The X Factor and will certainly be asking for his advice after taking up his own seat on this year's panel.

Robbie's Take That pal Gary was a judge on The X Factor for three series from 2011 to 2013.

Prior to the Angels hitmaker officially being announced as a judge at a press conference on Tuesday – alongside his wife Ayda Williams, 1D star Louis Tomlinson and, of course, music mogul Simon Cowell – Gary is reported to have offered his former bandmate some advice.

Gary told The Sun: "It's going to be great, but I know what's to come with that show. I know what it does to you. He's got some hard work ahead, that's for sure. I've told him it's a lot of hours – more than people realise. It's tiring."

At the press conference, Robbie told whatsontv.co.uk that he'll definitely be calling upon Gary for judging tips.

"I've read in the newspapers a few things that he's said. I emailed him this morning, and he just sent me his best wishes. I'll know what questions to ask him as of tomorrow, because the audition process starts tomorrow.

"So if there's anybody's ear that I'm going to be bending, it'll be Gary's. Also David Walliams, who's a mate of mine, I'll be bending his ear too. But we don't really know what we're in for."

Robbie hailed Gary 'an excellent judge' and openly admitted he'd been envious of Gary's time on the show.

"When Gary was on the show I was jealous," Robbie said. "Then when I saw him do incredibly well, I was even more jealous!"

Gary has since Tweeted his support for Robbie: "Good luck @robbiewilliams we're all behind you," but he cheekily added: "I want Ayda to win though lol."

Simon Cowell told reporters he’d "tried to get Robbie on every show for 18 years" and it’s believed that Robbie and wife Ayda are thought to have landed a £10million deal to appear on the show’s 15th series.

Robbie revealed: "I've wanted to do this show for a long time, it's never been right until now."

When Robbie was then asked why he’d decided to join the panel now, after previously turning down the role, he joked: “Millions, there are literally millions of reasons to be on this panel for this season.”

The X Factor 2018 auditions kick off on Wednesday July 18 at the SSE Wembley Arena in London.

Long-standing judge Louis announced that he was "ready to leave" earlier this week - but fellow X Factor star Sinnita isn't too convinced.

The '80s pop singer - and sometime Judges House leaf-wearer - says we've heard it all before from Louis and claims he'll be back on the show.

"Do you think he really has?" she asked The Mirror. "How many times has Louis quit X Factor? He says it every year.

"Do you think it really is it for him? He's said it before and he's always gone back. It could be just a plot.

"But saying that, maybe it is time he gave up and made way for someone new."

Could it be wishful thinking from Sinitta, who has admitted she's not sure the show would be the same without him?

"I would miss him and I think viewers will," she continued. "People will miss his bottom lip quivering when he doesn't get his own way or when he can't pronounce his contestants' names.

"Louis is a genuinely nice guy. Him and Simon are such good friends and if he really has left I'm sure they will still hang out."

Louis confirmed the news in a statement . It read, 'I've had a fantastic 13 years on The X Factor but the show needs a change and I'm ready to leave.

'I'm looking forward to another series of Ireland's Got Talent, going back to my day job as a manager, writing my memoirs, and seeing the world!'

It was also revealed this week, that Sharon Osborne will be re-joining the show - but only for the live shows.

'I can't wait to get back to the judges' desk. I love the new format,' she commented.

With Louis gone and Sharon only taking part in the live shows, Simon is looking for three more judges to join his panel.

A source confirmed to Digital Spy that Nicole Scherzinger will not be back, but could this be the year Cheryl makes her big come back?

Watch this space...

Ex Dancing On Ice champion thought he'd give X Factor a go after watching Shayne Ward

Former Dancing on Ice winner Ray Quinn has said he’ll be getting his kit off in the musical Summer Holiday, which is based on the 1960s film of the same name.

The former Brookside child actor, who won Dancing on Ice in 2009, revealed his clothes would be coming off for a shower scene in the musical.

Speaking on ITV show Lorraine, Ray, 29, said: “In this particular one I’m literally getting naked on stage. I’ll be in a pair of Y-fronts getting in a shower. I’ve lost a lot of weight being on the Dancing on Ice tour, skating every day.”

Ray, who lost out to Leona Lewis on The X Factor in 2006, said he actually turned down a role on London’s West End when he was auditioning for the ITV reality show.

“I was auditioning for Dirty Dancing at the time - I got the job. I sneaked out of college to do an open audition in London. I auditioned, about 500 people turned up, I ended up getting the job as ensemble. I was only 15, so I was like, I can’t really take it – I came for the experience.

“So I turned down a West End show at sort of 15… at the time I was at [X Factor] Bootcamp.”

Ray also revealed that he was inspired to have a crack at The X Factor by watching Coronation Street star Shayne Ward on it.

“The year before I was watching Shayne Ward – I watched him win and I said, I could do that.”

Lorraine, ITV, weekdays 8.30am - 9.25am.

Main pic: Ken McKay/ITV/REX/Shutterstock. Dancing on Ice pic: Brett D. Cove/Silverhub/REX/Shutterstock.

Jake Quickenden most likely to win DOI, according to the bookies

Punters are piling on the bets that former X Factor contestant and I'm a Celebrity star Jake Quickenden will win Dancing On Ice.

The 29-year-old singer is now a big favourite to win the ITV show, with Ladbrokes offering odds of just 6/4 that he will triumph on the ice rink.

His biggest rival appears to be Love Island 2017 winner Kem Cetinay, who is a 5-2 shot, while punters also rate the chances of rugby player Max Evans, who’s available at 4 to 1.

Jake, Max and Cheryl were revealed as the first stars signed up for the Dancing On Ice tour, which will feature Denise Van Outen as a guest judge.

However, while Cheryl is going on the tour, punters don’t thinking she’ll be winning Dancing On Ice as she’s a massive price of 50-1 to win the show.

Also unfancied in the betting market is Coronation Street star Antony Cotton, who’s also a 50-1 shot, and his chances are unlikely to have been helped by the news that he suffered two fractured ribs after falling during rehearsals for Dancing on Ice.

Punters also don’t think his fellow Corrie co-star Brooke Vincent will be winning either, with the actress a 14-1 chance.

Dancing On Ice, with Jake Quickenden and co, continues this Sunday on ITV at 6.00pm.

Odds: Ladbrokes prices.

X Factor final only attracts 5.2 million

The X Factor recorded its lowest ever overnight ratings for a final on Sunday night.

An audience of 5.2 million tuned in to see Rak-Su crowned champions, the first boy-band in the history of the show to win.

But that was less than the 7 million who watched Matt Terry win last year’s final.

The overnight figures for the ITV show’s finals have been decreasing year-on-year since 2010, when a peak of 17.2 million saw Matt Cardle take the crown.

The talent contest, which goes head-to-head with Strictly Come Dancing in the battle for viewers, has found itself lacking when compared to the BBC show.

On Sunday night an average of 10.3 million tuned into see Davood Ghadami and professional partner Nadiya Bychkova leave the dance floor, just shy of double the amount who watched the X Factor.

Previous X Factor winner James Arthur told fans to stop calling Rak-Su, who were the first act to perform an original song and win the final, “brave”.

He paid respect to the group for performing their own songs but added that, in the first year acts had been able to do so, it had been an advantage.

Rak-Su win to become the first boyband to triumph in the competition.

Boyband Rak-Su have won the X Factor 2017.

The I’m Feeling You singers beat Grace Davies in the final of the ITV singing competition, becoming the first boyband to win the show.

The group looked stunned as host Dermot O’Leary announced they had won the competition, before hugging each other and their mentor Simon Cowell.

Rak-Su thanked viewers and their families for making it such a special experience.

An emotional Simon called Rak-Su “gentlemen”, saying: “You are stars.”

He also praised runner-up Grace, saying: “Congratulations to Grace who is really an outstanding, outstanding artist.”

The band’s win capped a star-studded final that included performances from Pink, Sam Smith and Little Mix, who won X Factor themselves in 2011.

Rak-Su have now released Dimelo, their winner’s duet with Wyclef Jean and Naughty Boy, which they first performed during Saturday night’s show.

All proceeds from the track are in aid of children’s hospice charities Together For Short Lives and Shooting Star Chase.

Fans have been calling the Scottish trio out for potentially breaking a big X Factor rule.

Last night saw the first of this weekends two X Factor semi-finals, as audiences sadly bid farewell to an act ahead of the season finale next weekend.

This weekend had been themed Cool Britannia, with the remaining six acts having to perform a song which fit the theme of celebrating the best in British music.

With the semi-finalists taking to the stage to perform renditions of classic songs from artists such as The Rolling Stones, David Bowie and The Beatles, the Scottish trio had taken to the stage to perform an original song written by themselves.

The original song performed by the band, which is titled 'Nothing Like You', had led to X Factor viewers questioning whether or not this had broken an X Factor rule - as every act must perform a song which fits with the theme of the week.

According to The Mirror, many fans had taken to social media to call the Scottish trio out after they were saved in the bottom two.

One user shares, 'The CutKelvins neither sang an original or a song even vaguely British'. Another writes, 'I love The Cutkelvins and that song was brilliant but how the hell it kept to the theme, I don't know'.

Agreeing, a third writes: 'How was the cutkelvins song fitting into he cool brittania theme exactly?'.

This isn't the first time the band have raised eyebrows among viewers, as the trio had been called out previously for potential rule-breaking during George Micheal week.

With the other acts performing some classic George Micheal songs, the siblings had taken to the stage to perform their rendition of some of George Micheal's covers - leading to veiwers arguing that this technically hadn't been classic songs by the late and great artist.

We'd love to hear your thoughts, so please comment below.

The show's frontrunner, Alexandra, has revealed her personal battle as she looks ahead to Blackpool

She may be the favourite to win Strictly Come Dancing 2017, but singer and former X Factor champion Alexandra Burke had admitted she struggles with nerves on Saturday nights. While we're relaxed at home, watching her rack up incredible scores from the judges, she's doubting herself in her dressing room.

"It’s an amazing feeling to get 10s, it’s overwhelming and brilliant, but you’re only as good as your last performance and I live by that," she has told TV Times.

"You’ve got to bring something new to each dance and do it justice. I always worry about nerves getting in the way or having a mind blank – I completely froze in one of the dress rehearsals a few weeks ago. The worst was the week we opened the show with the cha cha, I was convinced I was going to be terrible.

"I stayed in my dressing room before the show, put the lavender oil in my diffuser to help with the anxiety and practiced my technique over and over. My lovely make-up lady had to tell me to stop overthinking it! I suffer from nerves quite badly anyway, and I got really bogged down by them that night. Nothing beats the feeling of dancing out there with Gorka, so I just want to do myself proud."

Alexandra insisted that her experience as a singer doesn't help her combat the dancing demons. "It’s just different. If you gave me a microphone I’d still be nervous but I’d know what to do because I sing for a living. People think because I go on stage to sing I’ll be fine, but it's not the same. It would be awful to forget a move on Strictly."

This weekend, Alexandra and her fellow celebrities will be performing at Blackpool's Tower Ballroom for the show's annual special. She can't wait to grace the huge sprung dance floor. "It's a Strictly milestone and all the pros talk about how amazing it is there, so you dream of performing on that show."

Strictly Come Dancing continues this Saturday on BBC1 at 6.45pm.

Viewers think the band had managed to break a big rule on the show...

Last night saw the remaining acts take to The X Factor stage in order to impress the panel of judges- and audiences nationwide.

However, one act who managed to really get audiences talking was Scottish band The Cutkelvins.

As is well known, The X Factor rule of thumb is that contestants must perform a song which fits the theme of the week in order to impress the judges,

Last night, the theme had been George Michael week- with the Groups category facing off against the Overs in order to try grab a place in next weeks round of the competition.

With performances of classic George Micheal songs, The Cutkelvin's had taken to the stage for their performance.

Before they took to the stage, Simon had told audiences that the trip were about sing 'not one of George Michael's songs but two of his greatest ever covers'.

The band had then performed a mash-up of Seal's Killer and Papa Was A Rolling Stone by The Temptations- both of which had been covered by George Micheal during his career, but are not classic songs by the star.

However, this had caused a reaction from the audience- with many wondering whether this had broken the rules of the competition as the performance hadn't involved George's actual songs.

Taking to social media, one user shares, 'Wait a second I thought it was George Michael week?? #cutkelvin’s #XFactor2017'.

Another user also shares that the trio had possibly broken the rules, 'Did The CutKelvin’s not get the Memo about it being George Michael week? #XFactor'.

Another writes, 'Wtf had that got to do with George Michael  #cutkelvin #XFactor'.

We'd love to hear your thoughts on the performance- did it break the rules, or had Simon and the band simply had an original take on the theme?

Alice Perry

This weekend's proposed double elimination on The X Factor has now been cancelled.

Show bosses previously stated that this weekend, they would be kicking off four acts as opposed to the normal two.

Up until now, the live shows have seen two acts booted off of the programme each weekend. The live shows are now into their third week, meaning four contestants have already lost their place in the competition.

In week one, fan favourite Talia Dean left the show, alongside popular 25-year-old Spencer Sutherland. And just last weekend, Tracey Leanne Jefford and Leon Mallet were the next contestants to face the chop.

But X Factor bosses had planned for yet another shake-up in the show for this weekend.

At the start of the week, it was announced that there would be a quadruple elimination. The show was originally planning to kick off four hopeful contestants this weekend, in a bid to mix up the live shows.

However,  it seems as though this format is about to change all over again, as show boss Simon Cowell has had a change of heart at the last minute.

We can't quite keep up!

According to the Metro, it's been revealed that the show has now cancelled the double elimination. This is said to be in order to give more time to the successful singing hopefuls.

A source told the publication, "We have some great talent on the show this year. Simon thinks it’s unfair to cut the numbers so drastically when contestants are doing so well."

Another source added, "Talent this year is exceptional and with less weeks of live shows producers want to give them more time to shine and more time for the audiences pick their favourites."

And the rollback to the normal format was finally confirmed in a statement made by ITV.

"This weekend’s show will feature one act leaving on Saturday and one act leaving on Sunday."

This week, the remaining hopefuls will be chanelling the late, great George Michael. They'll be singing hits from the superstar they attempt to sail through to the next round of the competition.

Matt Linnen will tackle the hit 'Careless Whisper'. And 20-year-old Grace Davies will share her rendition of 'I Can't Make You Love Me'

Sean and Conor Price will also be singing the catchy tune, 'Freedom! '90', while Rak-Su will by trying their hand at 'Faith'.

The show has had a big shake up when it comes to voting

The X Factor has seen the first act get sent home this series as part of a big shake-up of the voting system.

Spencer Sutherland was the unlucky contestant eliminated from the competition on Saturday night’s debut live show, which saw the viewers alone choose who should go rather than the previous format of the judges making the final decision.

Whilst there used to be a sing-off between the two acts with the lowest amount of the public vote, the programme now sends the star who proves least popular with fans home straight away without consulting the panel.

Spencer - who was mentored by Louis Walsh as part of the Boys category - was obviously disappointed to be axed but spoke of how grateful he was for being given a chance.

The American-born star explained: "I just want to take the opportunity to thank everyone so much, and the UK for welcoming me with open arms."

As part of the change to the voting system, host Dermot O’Leary also revealed which act had earned the most votes from viewers during the show.

It turned out to be Grace Davies, one of Sharon Osbourne’s acts in the Girls category who is one of the favourites to win.

The 20-year-old was thrilled to hear the news and will now get to compete against the most popular act from Sunday night’s show for the chance to win a music workshop with singer Pink in New York.

After Saturday saw the Boys and Girls take to the stage, Sunday’s programme will feature the Overs and Groups categories and another act will be sent home from the competition.

It looks like judge Simon Cowell - who mentors the Groups - will also hopefully return after being forced to miss the opening live show following a fall at home.

See the action unfold when The X Factor airs at 7pm on Sunday 29 October on ITV.

Simon could be missing from tonights live show.

It is currently being reported that head judge of The X Factor, music mogul Simon Cowell, will not be donning his glad rags for the first live show tonight- after reports of an accident at home.

Earlier in the week, it had been reported that Simon had been taken to hospital after fainting and falling down his stairs at home.

At the time of his accident, a source close to Simon had shared: 'It was very early and Simon was going down his stairs to get some hot milk because he couldn’t sleep. He fainted and is thought to have fallen down the stairs'.

Yesterday, Simon had confirmed his mishap to The Sun, having shared: 'I'm feeling okay. I fainted'.

However, Simon then added that whilst he has plans of a speedy recovery, he's not sure if he'll be in top form on time for tonights first live show. He shares, 'I will be back but I don't know about tomorrow'.

If Simon doesn't make a quick enough recovery, it might not just be the head judge missing from tonights show- as his Groups category also might have to take the night off and reschedule their first performance.

If this is the case, then tonight will see early performances from Sharon and Louis' categories, the boys and the girls, who were previously scheduled to make their live show debut on Sunday's show.

A source close to the show has shared with The Sun that 'Simon is expected to be fine for Sunday’s show, but right now he needs as much rest as possible'.

Confirming the allegations of an early performance for some categories, the source then added: 'They’ll switch the singers which means they’ll be panic for some contestants  but everyone totally understands'.

Lets hope Simon and his groups make a speedy return to our screens!

Alice Perry

X Factor bosses have reportedly scrapped the the judge’s sing-off vote in one of the biggest shake ups the show has ever seen.

X Factor producers have reportedly scrapped the judge’s sing-off vote in one of the biggest shake ups the show has ever seen.

An X Factor source told The Sun: “The sing-off had been popular but Simon believed that it had become sour and focused too much on who was leaving rather than championing the talent who was in the lead."

The contestant with the fewest votes will automatically be sent packing following the public vote - with no chance to save their place in the competition.

This comes after it was also revealed that contestants would be required to sing on both Saturday and Sunday.

The changes also mean that a star guest performer will appear on every episode, with this weekend’s shows featuring Stormzy and Liam Payne.

Saturday’s first live episode will also see viewers find out the results of the Wild Card vote, with four acts who failed to make it through to the live shows, returning.

The X Factor continues on Saturday at 8.20pm on ITV

Olly Murs has spoken of his difficult departure from The X Factor.

Olly Murs has lifted the lid on his time presenting one of the UK's biggest prime time live shows, revealing that a number of blunders on the show led to a personal crisis.

Olly co-presented The X Factor in 2015 with fellow host Caroline Flack.

However, the pair only lasted one season- with many presuming that the gaffes made by the pair whilst live on air had led to them being let off by boss Simon Cowell.

In one infamous escapade, Olly had accidentally revealed the result of the Deadlock whilst live on air, all before the process had been carried out- ultimately accidentally revealing who was being sent home from the competition.

Speaking of the accidental reveal, and his time live presenting such a massive show, Olly shares with The Daily Star: 'I was dealing with the pressures of this industry when I was first in the public eye… it’s not easy for anyone'.

Olly continues, 'When I was on X Factor with all the stuff that happened it was intense. There was a lot of pressure on my shoulders hosting at the time what was the biggest show on TV'.

Speaking of his departure from the show, with some assuming he'd been possibly fired, Olly adds: ' I've learnt from those times I felt down and depressed. I think positive, you can't dwell on the past.'

Speaking of the harder times following his departure, Olly shares: 'Luckily, I have a good team around me who saw I was in that place and they got me out of it very quickly. And being the positive guy that I am I moved away from it'.

However, whilst The X Factor didn't quite work out for Olly, the 33-year-old has managed to land himself a top spot on rival show The Voice as a voice coach- which will be starting early next year.

Alice Perry