Eighties pop favourite Paula Abdul will take a seat alongside Simon Cowell and Louise Walsh on one of the new X Factor: All Stars series, it has been claimed.
According to The Sun, Si, 59, is reported to have turned to his former judging colleague on the US X Factor because Nicole Sherzinger – already announced for X Factor: Celebrity – is said to be tied up.
The tabloid quotes an unnamed TV insider as indicating 57-year-old Paula and Simon have kept in touch since working together – and Paula is part of his production company’s “family”.
“Paula and Simon have great on-screen chemistry and their banter is funny and entertaining,” the anonymous source is reported to have said.
Read more: BBC confirms Christmas special presented by Holly Willoughby and Bradley Walsh
They continued: “Simon feels comfortable sitting next to her and knows they’ll have a laugh and wind each other up, which will make for electric and entertaining viewing.
“Simon has handed her a lucrative contract to ensure she’s happy and it’s worth her while financially.”
ED! has approached a representative for X Factor for comment.
X Factor: All Stars is one of two new shows – alongside X Factor: Celebrity – set to replace ITV’s flagship singing competition this autumn.
Read more: Tracy Ann Oberman’s ‘naughty’ slip on Sunday Brunch leaves viewers in hysterics
Former favourites like Leona Lewis, Alexandra Burke, Fleur East, Wagner, James Arthur and Jedward are all tipped to appear as part of the new format.
However, Shayne Ward – winner in 2005 – has ruled himself out of the series.
Meanwhile, The X Factor: Celebrity is scheduled to begin on ITV in October.
The line up of famous faces taking part includes The Chase’s Jenny Ryan, Love Island’s Wes Nelson and Vinnie Jones.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BvmgRczhG7V/
Leave us a comment on our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix and let us know what you think of this story.