Gary Barlow: Sharon Has Taken My Head Judge Role

17 July 2013

Gary Barlow at The X Factor auditions

Gary Barlow says Sharon Osbourne has "completely" taken over his head judge role on 'The X Factor'.

The Take That singer admits he is no longer the main man on the panel but is delighted about the return of the 60-year-old star - who replaced Tulisa for this year's series after previously sitting on the panel from 2004 to 2007 - because he feels like he is sitting alongside talent show royalty.

Speaking at 'The X Factor' auditions at London's Wembley Arena, he told BANG Showbiz: "She's completely taken my head judge mantle. She's smashed it. It's great to have her back, we've got the queen with us this year. It does feel like we're in the room with royalty - it's great!

"I like Tulisa. We had two good years and I thought she was very passionate about the acts she worked with. But she's gone now and Mrs. O is back so it's great. I'm excited for this year."

Fellow judge Louis Walsh insists Sharon is the best possible replacement for the N-Dubz singer, but admits he would be delighted if Tulisa returned to the panel - which also features Nicole Scherzinger - because he has lost his best friend.

He said: "Sharon is fun and you never know what she is going to say or do, and she curses a lot which is fun. She keeps it real.

"Sharon is always lively. She's brilliant, there's nobody like her. She's a one-off. For me yeah she's the best possible replacement for Tulisa, but I'd like Tulisa back as well. I love her, we're best friends."