DERMOT O’Leary is to return to host The X Factor, The Sun can reveal.
The presenter, 42, has agreed to go back to the ITV talent show just a year
after leaving — with the full backing of Simon Cowell.
Details are being thrashed out but insiders say Dermot, previously paid
£1million a series, can “name his price” on a potential three-year contract.
Last year’s hosts Olly Murs, 31, and Caroline Flack, 36, were blasted for
their poor performances and bosses confirmed they would not return.
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An insider said: “Dermot will come back to The X Factor. Talks are under way
on his deal but everything is positive.
“Everyone, including Dermot and Simon, has the will to make it work.”
One source told how Dermot is now in a much more powerful position than before
he left. And the insider added he could front the show for the rest of its
life-span.
The insider said: “Producers have realised you can’t take any risks with
the presenter of the show.
“You need someone really good who can cope with live TV.
“It is a massive skill and there are not many people who have it.
“There is even talk Dermot could be offered the presenting job for the rest of
the show’s life when a new deal is signed with ITV.
“Bosses are looking at a two or three-year contract for him.”
Dermot’s return comes despite his criticisms of the last series.
He said boss Cowell, 56, should rest the show for a year and ditch the
six-chair challenge.
An X Factor spokesman said last night: “Discussions are ongoing about the new
series.
“Details will be announced in due course.”