Louis Walsh has claimed his X Factor contract is “watertight” following rumours Simon Cowell could shake up the entire judging panel this year.
The Irish music manager has reacted to unconfirmed claims over the weekend that allege Simon wants a complete revamp for the new series, and could axe Louis, Sharon Osbourne and Nicole Scherzinger.
Of course, this sort of speculation surfaces every year…
Louis told The Sun: “My contract is watertight. I’ve checked it out with someone and have told Simon that.”
He added: “I have spoken to Sharon. She’s said they can only sack us if they pay us.”
Louis and Sharon, who were both original judges on the show back in 2004, are believed to have signed three year contracts when they rejoined for the last series.
But it was rumoured over the weekend that music mogul Simon could overhaul the show ahead of the next series.
Read more: Scarlett Moffatt reveals last-minute stress before Saturday Night Takeaway trip to Florida
One Direction’s Louis Tomlinson, hitmaker Craig David and former Take That star Robbie Williams have all been rumoured as possible new judges.
Robbie is no stranger to the show, having helped both Gary Barlow and Sharon pick their acts at judges’ houses in the past.
Meanwhile, there’s also been speculation about Kylie Minogue following in her sister Danni’s footsteps to become a judge, or Simon asking Britain’s Got Talent judge Alesha Dixon to switch shows to become a mentor.
And not forgetting former X Factor favourite Cheryl, who has been hotly tipped to return after having her son Bear a year ago. She made a brief return last year to help Simon picks his acts.
Of course, these rumours circulate before every series and even Louis admitted: “I don’t think they’ve finalised what they’re going to do with the panel.”
However, he said it would be a real shame if the show lost Nicole, calling her “brilliant” and hard-working.
He told The Mirror: “If Nicole’s not back, I’m going to miss her. She’s the best – I love and adore her.”
Nicole, 38, who is currently on holiday in Italy, has not commented on the speculation. But on Sunday she did post a picture of herself from Lake Como to wish her followers a Happy Easter.
Read more: Everyone is making the same joke about Phelan after last night’s Coronation Street
An X Factor representative told ED!: “There is always speculation regarding The X Factor judging panel. It’s too early to confirm the judges for the next series.”
Who would you like to see on The X Factor judging panel? Leave us a comment on our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix and let us know what you think!