Cheryl Fernandez-Versini is set to stay on the X Factor panel for the forthcoming series of the ITV talent show. Simon Cowell has told the 31 year-old that she will remain a judge "at all costs", according to The Sun.Fellow judge and former Spice Girl Mel B's future on the show isn't so certain, however. A source told the newspaper: "They haven't signed a deal yet but Simon, Cheryl and ITV are all on the same page. "But that's really bad news for Mel. She had a good first year but bosses want a new line-up."
Cheryl is staying on X Factor after rumours that she might be replaced on the judging panel
Music mogul Simon is apparently keen to revamp the programme after it lost out in the ratings battle with Strictly Come Dancing last series. Following Dermot O'Leary's decision to quit the show, it seems more of a shake-up is on the cards, with numerous reports that Cheryl and Irish funnyman Louis Walsh could also be making an exit. "Simon has accepted that Louis no longer has a job for life on The X Factor," a source told the Sun. "His place on the panel is not guaranteed. He's unlikely to stay because we are actively looking at new options for his role. "Reportedly in line to replace Louis is Robbie Williams – the "top choice" to take his seat. Robbie is no stranger to the show, having appeared as a guest judge with Gary Barlow at the judges' houses.
© Photo: RexX Factor panel: Louis Walsh, Mel B, Cheryl Fernandez-Versini and Simon Cowell
But the insider added that Louis, who has been on the show since it first began, is the "great survivor of the X Factor", so nothing is set in stone.
Richard Holloway, the X Factor's executive producer, admitted earlier this month that there would be some big changes ahead of the next series, in a bid to improve viewing figures. "We have been making the show for ten years and to make it popular you have to refresh the show," he said. "You need to look at every aspect and move with the times. "There is an ongoing battle with Strictly. On overall volume they beat us last year. It has been a few years since we beat them on overall volume."
