The X Factor has announced the new judging panel for this year’s series – which includes Robbie Williams and Louis Tomlinson.
The new-look line-up was revealed at a press conference earlier today (July 17). Williams will appear on the judges’ desk alongside his wife Ayda Field, Simon Cowell, and Tomlinson. The former One Directioner gained huge fame following the band’s appearance on the show back in 2010.
Speaking of the news, Williams said: “I’ve done tour, promo, tour, promo for nearly 30 years, and now it’s time to branch out and do something different.”
After much speculation, we are SO EXCITED to reveal our X Factor 2018 JUDGES!!!! Welcome to the panel @Louis_Tomlinson, @robbiewilliams, Ayda Williams and the one and only, Mr @SimonCowell! ????? #XFactor pic.twitter.com/pS6fwBI6RY
— The X Factor (@TheXFactor) July 17, 2018
The ‘Let Me Entertain You’ pop star has been rumoured to appear on the upcoming series for the last few months.
“This new panel is all about optimism, everyone has a real passion for finding a new star,” Cowell added. “The three new judges bring a whole new energy and I’m excited.”
The line-up changes see Louis Walsh leave the show after 13 years, while Sharon Osbourne will appear as an impartial fifth judge.
It was also confirmed that host Dermot O’Leary will return to present the ITV talent show.
Auditions for the next series will begin filming tomorrow (July 18) at London’s SSE Arena. Series 15 of The X Factor will air this autumn.
Meanwhile, Robbie Williams joined Taylor Swift at her London show to perform ‘Angels’ last month. He also made an appearance at the World Cup opening ceremony in Russia.