Louis Walsh has announced he will not be returning to 'The X Factor'.

Louis Walsh

Louis Walsh

The 65-year-old entertainment manager has been the ITV talent competition's most long-standing judge, having been on the panel in all but one of the show's series since its conception in 2004, but on Thursday (07.06.18), he revealed he is bowing out of the show.

He said in a statement: "I've had a fantastic 13 years on The X Factor but the show needs a change and I'm ready to leave."

Louis won't be leaving Thames and Syco for good though, as although he won't be working on 'The X Factor' any more, he will still be the head judge on 'Ireland's Got Talent', which returns in 2019.

He added: "I'm looking forward to another series of 'Ireland's Got Talent', going back to my day job as a manager, writing my memoirs and seeing the world!"

Whilst Thames Managing Director, Amelia Brown, added: "Louis has been a huge part of 'The X Factor's success since it launched and remains a good friend of the show.

"His contribution cannot be overstated. We would like to thank him for all he has given to the show over the years and look forward to continuing to work with him in the future."

Meanwhile, fellow judge Sharon Osbourne will also be taking on a different role in the upcoming series of the show, as whilst she will still be on the panel, she'll only be present for the live shows.

She said: "I can't wait to get back to the judges' desk. I love the new format."

And Amelia continued: "We are very excited Sharon is taking on a new role on the show and we can't wait to see her as a judge on the live episodes.

"This is the start of a new era for 'The X Factor'. I am really excited about all the ideas we have for the coming series including, of course, the new judging panel."

Creator Simon Cowell will be returning to the series alongside three new judges, who are expected to be announced in due course.

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