It’s official – Simon Cowell and Cheryl Fernandez-Versini will be joined by Rita Ora and Nick Grimshaw on this year's X Factor judging panel. The brand new line-up was confirmed on Tuesday morning after weeks of speculation, and has seen Louis Walsh and Mel B leave the show.A photo announcing the news was uploaded to The X Factor's official page, showing Cheryl, Nick and Rita smiling happily together.
Cheryl, 31, shared the picture on her Twitter account, writing: "Excited to be back on @thexfactor. Welcome to the show @ritaora and @grimmers… And of course Cowell himself."Rita also shared her excitement. "Let’s do this @grimmers @cherylofficial @simoncowell @TheXFactor #xfactor."
The 24-year-old singer will be leaving her position as a coach on BBC rival show The Voice after just one season to take on The X Factor role. She is no stranger to the ITV programme, having appeared as a guest judge three years ago. "I am excited to be coming back to The X Factor – I had a ball here in 2012," Rita said in a statement. "This is a journey I can't wait to embark on to find some talented singers. It's the new generation taking over. Booooooom."
Radio 1 DJ Nick, 30, meanwhile commented: "I love The X Factor and have watched the series religiously since it started, so obviously I'm hugely excited to be joining the show. Music is my job and my passion and I'm really looking forward to seeing what talent we can find and nurture this year. I can't wait for Judges Houses in Oldham!"Cheryl said: "I haven't been as excited about an X Factor season since I first became a judge. The addition of Rita and Grimmy along with some interesting changes we've made to the format has refocused us to do what we do best, finding talent and making stars. I cannot wait to get started."
X Factor boss Simon added: "It's taken a while! But I am very happy to be able to confirm our line-up of judges for The X Factor this year. The combination of Nick, Cheryl and Rita is going to be a lot of fun! They all bring a lot of enthusiasm and passion for music to the show. "I have a feeling I am in for a bit of a rough time but sometimes you to embrace the craziness and now, with luck, we hope to find a star."
