‘Sharon’s on her third face!’
X Factor judge Louis Walsh, 65, opens up about the rest of the judging panel and why he’s really in it to win it on this year’s show
Are the judges getting on as well as they did last year?
Of course, we are like one big dysfunctional family. We all come from different backgrounds, so we all have different opinions, but are very comfortable with each other. That’s why we work so well as a panel. Simon [Cowell] has me there as he knows I love the job.
What sort of mood has Simon been in during auditions?
Really good. What I love about Simon is he doesn’t want the show to be predictable, that’s why he’s made these changes. He knows what he’s doing, and we trust his judgement. He’s been really funny during auditions, but I have this feeling he’s going to be saving his nasty side for the live shows. He’ll also have a new face for the live shows, I’m sure! He changes it all the time. I’m the only one on the panel who hasn’t had any surgery. Sharon [Osbourne] is on her third face, but it’s her best yet so I hope she keeps it!
You are a big fan of Nicole Scherzinger, aren’t you?
I actually believe she is the best judge we’ve ever had. She’s a great singer, she knows how to judge, and you never know what she’s going to say next. She is naturally very funny, and that’s why the public love her. She also never seems to look any older. I think she’s going backwards.
What do you make of the talent this year?
It’s better than last year, and there is such huge potential in every category. There’s no novelty acts this year, either. It’s back to basics and finding talent that we believe in. We don’t want any more Honey Gs on the show – Simon has made that clear. We want talent that the public will get behind because it’s them that have to vote… it’s their show.
Are you happy with your category this year?
I got the boys this year, so I’m very happy. The problem I’ve got now is how I’m going to pick three finalists – the six I have are all so good. That is the hardest part of the job. You have to make sure you choose
the right three because the live shows are the biggest test for them.
What do you make of the changes to the show Simon has made?
Simon always wants to make the show better, that’s why he makes these changes. You can’t keep being predictable – something always has to evolve with a show like The X Factor. He also wants the public to be more involved.
What about the Six Chair Challenge?
Honestly? Simon has made it worse this year. I was in such a state, and Nicole had to walk off the stage. She had a bit of a meltdown, and I felt for her. She didn’t like it because it’s very cruel this year. It was horrible for all of us.
Do you like the idea of contestants singing original songs?
I do, as long as the song is good. If it’s not, they will be going home. It’s as simple as that. So it’s a bit of a risk, but we have to try to make the show a bit more current.
What about Judges’ Houses – do you know where you’re going?
I’m never sure until the last minute, but I did hear it may be Turkey. I don’t care, as I have to do the same job wherever it is. I’ve got to pick my final three, and that makes me nervous, if I’m honest with you. It will all be down to what happens on the day.
Who would you like to have help you at Judges’ Houses?
I would like Alesha [Dixon] because she really knows about talent. She’s already been on the show twice, so I’m hoping it’s her. We get on really well, and I trust her judgement. She always has an opinion, and she’s very enthusiastic. She loves this show, and has been very loyal to Simon.
What about the groups – is Simon hopeful of having an act in the final?
Simon always wants to win. You know what he’s like, Tony. I actually believe he may have found the next Little Mix. He’s got a great girl group in his category, so he’s really happy with himself. I think he will do well this year.
You and Simon are very competitive. Do you really think you have a chance of winning?
Simon thinks he is going to win this year, but I’m going to really take him on. I’ve told him so. The last time I had the boys’ category, I won with Shayne Ward. He’ll remember that. Yes, we’re both competitive when it comes to winning, but in the end we have the same goal – to find a talented act who can sell records.
The X Factor returns to ITV on Saturday at 8pm
‘It’s back to basics and finding talent we believe in. We don’t want any more Honey Gs’