Louis: Now it Shaz to be war
LOUIS Walsh has declared war on rival X Factor judge Sharon Osbourne.
The pair have become close pals behind the scenes on the ITV show and even share a dressing room.
But tonight their acts will be competing for public votes for the first time – and Louis, 65, has warned he’s gearing up for a fight.
He told the Daily Star Sunday: “It all starts this weekend. It’s me versus Sharon.
“Even though we’re sharing a dressing room we’re going to fight for our acts. I’m going to fight for my guys. It’s their big chance, so I’ll support them.
“As judges we really do get on great – and that’s not showbiz bulls***. We love each other. And it’s unusual that you get four people who really get on well behind the scenes. But the live shows change that.” Viewers saw Simon and Nicole’s categories performing on last night’s show. Tonight, Sharon’s girls will battle it out with Louis’ boys.
Louis added: “We all want to win. Nicole is very competitive – and Simon is too. But mainly it’s Nicole! That’s me being honest.”
Sharon, 65, looks set to thrash Louis, according to bookies Paddy Power.
They have made two of her acts – Grace Davies and Holly Tandy – the hot favourites this year. Meanwhile, Louis’ best chance of victory is hunky Sam Black at 25/1.
Strictly has been winning the ratings war this year – pulling in twice as many viewers. But Louis is confident the hype around X Factor’s live shows kicking off this weekend could turn the tables. He said: “I have a good feeling. So many people have been talking to me about the show.
“I’ve never had so many people on to me about having tickets for the show. I think that’s a really good sign.
“I also think this year the talent is good. There are so many people who are going to have great careers out of it. That’s what it is all about. I’m really happy with the acts that I’ve got and I’m really enjoying working with them.”