Louis: we’ll find the superstars
Playing down suggestions that the singing contest had lost its magic after 14 years on screen, Louis said boss Simon Cowell has stripped it back and is pushing for acts to perform their own songs.
Last night contestants Rak-su and Grace Davies impressed with their original music and were put through to boot camp. Brazilian Elisangela created a stir with her raunchy performance and Lisburn’s Rwanda Shaw, 21, also made it through to the next stage.
“We’re going to find three or four great artists this year – I’m absolutely sure,” said Louis.
Changes to the format include not allowing former acts to return. Louis, 65, said: “Simon hates being predictable. I know there are going to be fewer live shows and the jukebox is gone. It’s going be fresher.”
Reunited with Simon, 57, Sharon Osbourne, 64, and Nicole Scherzinger, 39, Louis says he expects fewer changes when it comes to the judges. “I’ve got a three-year contract,” he said. “I know Sharon has. I don’t know about Nicole.”
FEUD
Appearing to reignite his feud with ex-judge Cheryl, he told how former Pussycat Doll Nicole works harder than her Girls Aloud predecessor.
He said: “Nicole is the best judge for me. Who would Simon prefer? Nicole. She puts in more hours than anyone.”
Louis has previously hit out at Cheryl, 34, calling her “irrelevant”. But he did say he’d support the new mum – who had son Bear with 1D’s Liam Payne in March – if she decided to return.
“I wouldn’t mind Cheryl back,” said Louis, who once managed Girls Aloud. “I’m glad she’s happy.”
He went on to say he’s hoping Cheryl’s ex-bandmate Sarah Harding can reignite her career after winning Celeb Big Brother.
Giving his verdict on former X Factor contestants Alexandra Burke and Aston Merrygold with their upcoming appearances on BBC rival show Strictly Come Dancing, Louis said: “Both are good dancers. I’m glad they’re doing it because it will help their careers.”
janine.yaqoob@trinitymirror.com