Gary Barlow will quit 'The X Factor' after the current series.
Take That star Gary Barlow has confirmed he will quit his role as a judge on 'The X Factor' when the current series comes to an end s he looks to focus on his own music career.
He confirmed in a statement: "I've had an amazing time on 'X Factor' these past three years.
I've had an amazing time on 'X Factor' these past three years
A show like this needs to stay fresh and exciting so it's a great opportunity for someone to come in and take the show past its incredible ten year anniversary.
"Next year is looking to be a very busy year for me and The X Factor is a full time job so it felt like the right time to hand over the baton.
"I've loved being a part of the show and have met and worked with some fantastic people but most importantly, more than ever, I want to go out with the winning act this year. Come on the groups!"
The initial announcement was casually made during the first live show last night (12.10.13) when he was discussing Rough Copy's performance.
He said: "I've been here for three years and I'm so glad that for my last year on the show I get to mentor you guys."
An 'X Factor' spokesman has thanked the Take That star for his "amazing contribution".
They added: "As Gary said on the show tonight we can confirm that this will be his last series as a judge on 'The X Factor'.
"We'd like to thank him for an amazing contribution over the last three years.
"Next year he will be focusing on his own music but until then he will be mentoring the groups and hoping to take one of them all the way to the final and leave on a high."
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