Louis Back On Factor

Louis Walsh will return to X Factor in a bid to boost dwindling ratings.

16:22 28 September 2015

Louis Walsh will return to X Factor as a “fifth judge.” The Irish music manager, who left the show earlier this year, is hoped to dwindling ratings a boost.

 

Based on reports, Louis, who was replaced by Radio 1 DJ Nick Grimshaw, will provide commentary on the acts but will not be sitting alongside the four judges.

 

A source said: “He will be a neutral fifth judge who will sit in a special place away from the other judges to provide his own unbiased comments on the contestants.”

 

“It’s a massive coup for Louis who is also going to sign a deal with Simon to help launch Ireland’s Got Talent as a judge.

“We know Nick will come into his own on the live shows because of his experience as a DJ, but we think Louis will be a great addition.”

 

The source added that the format of the show may also change.

 

The source said: "Some of the bosses also like the idea of scoring singers, it was something that was almost brought in during the 2014 series for the live show.

 

"They would not use paddles, otherwise they would be accused of copying Strictly, but scores would show how people improve each week and would be another thing viewers would comment and discuss."

 

However, an X Factor spokesperson told Mirror TV: “The live shows do not start until the end of next month and any talk of plans at this stage is speculation."