This year’s ‘X Factor’ is well underway, and while ITV are about to screen the six chair challenge episodes, the panellists are currently getting ready for the Judges' Houses round, which will be filmed in the coming weeks.
Usually, each judge takes their category to an exotic location, however things are going to be a little different for one group this year, as Nick Grimshaw looks set to go ahead with his plan to take the boys to the North of England.
The 'X Factor' judges
New reports claim that Nick’s judges houses round will be filmed in Greater Manchester, as the DJ needs to be able to fulfil his Radio 1 commitments.
“He’s in the studio every morning Monday to Friday so has to get back quickly after ‘X Factor’ filming,” a source told the Sunday People. “They’ve plumped for Greater Manchester as Nick grew up in Oldham and the area’s close to his heart.
“It’s lovely but not exactly what most of the boys will be expecting.”
The other three judges are opting for more glam options, and Simon Cowell is reportedly on the hunt for the perfect french chateau to film his scenes in, where he’ll be joined by One Direction’s Louis Tomlinson.
Meanwhile, Rita Ora and the girls are believed to be heading to LA, while Cheryl Fernandez-Versini takes the groups to Rome.
‘X Factor’ has been given a shake-up this year, and veteran Louis Walsh is off the panel for the first time ever, though he could be making a surprise return.
According to reports, Louis will act as a “fifth judge” during this year’s live stages, and he did nothing to dispel the rumours during an appearance on ‘Loose Women’ earlier this week.