Louis Walsh has finally broken his silence on the real reason behind his controversial exit from The X Factor after 13 years as one of the show's most iconic judges.
The music manager, who became a household name alongside Simon Cowell, revealed that his departure wasn't exactly voluntary. 'I didn't actually quit - I was basically sacked,' Walsh confessed in a bombshell revelation that will shock fans of the long-running talent show.
The Simon Cowell Factor
According to Walsh, the decision came directly from the show's mastermind, Simon Cowell. 'Simon just said, 'Look, it's time for a change. We're going to have a new panel.'' The Irish star admitted that while he understood the need for refreshment, the manner of his departure still stings.
Walsh served on the judging panel from the show's inception in 2004 until 2018, making him one of the most enduring faces in British reality television history. His sharp wit and occasional clashes with fellow judges became must-watch television for millions.
No Hard Feelings?
Despite the abrupt ending, Walsh insists there's no bad blood between him and Cowell. 'We're still friends. I saw him recently and it was fine,' he revealed, though acknowledging that their relationship has inevitably changed since the show.
The veteran music manager also shared that he hasn't watched the show since his departure, suggesting that moving on completely has been part of his process.
Life After X Factor
Since leaving the ITV staple, Walsh has kept busy with various projects but admits nothing quite compares to the X Factor rollercoaster. 'It was the best job in the world,' he reflected, describing the experience as 'a great ride' despite its unexpected conclusion.
His revelation adds another layer to the complex history of one of British television's most successful entertainment formats, which finally ended in 2023 after nearly two decades on air.
