Mel B reportedly axed from the X Factor


April 23, 2015

Mel B could be the latest star to leave The X Factor as Simon Cowell continues his bid to revamp the reality TV show. The former Spice Girl has reportedly been axed from the judging panel after just one series.

A source told The Sun: "Bosses are evolving The X Factor and it has been decided Mel won't return."

Meanwhile a second insider added: "Simon and the producers are now looking for a replacement for Mel. If they fail to find a suitable candidate there is a small chance she could be back."

© Photo: Rex

Mel B has reportedly been axed from The X Factor

Music mogul Simon is keen to revamp the show after it lost out in the ratings battle with Strictly Come Dancing in 2014. Numerous reports suggest that Louis Walsh could also leave the judging panel after appearing on the show since its launch in 2004.

One judge whose place on the panel is believed to be safe is Cheryl Fernandez-Versini. The singer is tipped to return to the show with a lucrative £2million contract – a pay rise of £500,000 from 2014.

Richard Holloway, The X Factor's executive producer, previously admitted that there would be some big changes ahead of the next series, in a bid to improve viewing figures.

© Photo: Rex

Simon Cowell wants to revamp The X Factor

"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."

The latest speculation comes just a week after it was confirmed that Olly Murs and Caroline Flack have signed on to replace Dermot O'Leary as hosts on the long-running ITV show.

"I'm incredibly excited and proud to be returning to The X Factor alongside Caroline," said Olly in an official statement. Caroline added: "I'm beyond excited about presenting The X Factor with Olly. To have the privilege of doing this with someone who makes me laugh out loud is a massive bonus!"

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