‘X Factor’: Louis Walsh Set To Return To Judging Panel In Latest Shake-Up

Louis Walsh is set to return to the ‘X Factor’ judging panel just one year after being axed from the show, according to reports.

In a huge u-turn, show boss Simon Cowell has flown the 63-year-old music manager to LA in a bid to woo him back to the ITV singing competition.

Simon wants Louis to return to the show in a bid to attract older viewers from the BBC's rival show, 'Strictly Come Dancing'..

He is set to replace outgoing judge, Radio 1 Breakfast Show host Nick Grimshaw, who has already ruled himself out of returning to the show after just one year as a judge.

A source told The Sun: “Simon didn’t really want Louis to go in the first place.

“He’s doing all he can to sign him for the next series. Louis is up for it. Simon wants an older person back after admitting last year’s series was too youthful, which might have made more people go to Strictly.”

Louis was one of the original judges and survived 11 years on the judging panel before being dumped last year.

News of his return comes just days after it was announced that Dermot O’Leary would also be returning to the show.

After much speculation, it was confirmed that the presenter would be back to helm the show after his replacements, Caroline Flack and Olly Murs, got the thumbs down from viewers.

Dermot has shared his excitement ahead of filming, saying: “I’m very flattered to be asked back to ‘The X Factor’, and am currently dusting off my dancing shoes. There is nothing more exciting than hosting live TV on a Saturday night.

“The show is naturally very close to my heart, after having hosted it for 8 years. I’m really looking forward to it, and excited to be back.”

Simon Cowell added: “Dermot’s back! Hooray! And so is his dancing! Welcome home Dermot.”