X Factor host Dermot O’Leary says Simon Cowell has turned a ‘big softie’ with judge’s line-up
The bubbly presenter made his comments after The Sun exclusively revealed his return to the talent show
RETURNING X Factor frontman Dermot O'Leary claims head honcho judge Simon Cowell - formerly dubbed Mr Nasty - has switched to become a "BIG SOFTIE."
The Sun exclusively revealed the popular presenter would be back hosting the reality show's new series and he has spoken out to claim the panel's catty comments and harsh put-downs were a thing of the past.
After witnessing the live audition rounds with a re-vamped judging line-up including cheeky chappie Louis Walsh, 'shamazing' Nicole Scherzinger and bold Sharon Osbourne, Dermot said: "I don't know whether it is time and getting older, but it is a softer panel.
"Now when someone comes on and they don't do a great audition, they are told: 'We are really glad you have come and have had the best day."
The bubbly northern Irishman added: "It definitely feels very warm now."
Fans' favourites Nicole and Sharon will make a sensational return to the ITV show when it kick-starts again this summer after previously proving a huge hit in former series.
They will team up with Mr Nice Guy Louis - a stalwart of the programme - famed for being super-positive about acts and dithering over decisions.
Yet it seems even Simon's sarcasm and put downs have been traded in.
In former series telly addicts have seen him blast out lines after less-than-impressive acts have performed including: "It was a bit like ordering a hamburger and only getting the bun," and the cutting: "You actually sing like a train going off the rails."
Giving the thumbs-up for the show of love in the X Factor team, Dermot : "Now it feels very old school with Louis, Sharon and Nicole coming back.
"We have had a really fun time. It's been a laugh."
RELATED STORIES
The Sun was first to reveal his £8million deal to return to the hit show with a four-year deal making him the best-paid solo presenter on British telly.
He will also still be able to work for BBC TV and Radio 2, boosting his annual pay packet to at least £3million.
Dermot, 43, was forced to leave last year after boss Simon Cowell wanted Olly Murs and Caroline Flack.
An X Factor source revealed: “This is the comeback of all comebacks for Dermot.
“Just one year after Cowell axed him, he’s signing the contract of a lifetime.
“It’s completely unheard of for one presenter to be paid £8million to host one show. There hasn’t been a deal like it since Jonathan Ross was getting millions a year from the BBC to host his chat show.
“X Factor just didn’t work without Dermot. Getting him to come back was absolutely essential for its future.”
Meanwhile a teaser clip to promote the new series first aired on ITV last night.
In the hilarious clip the judges are seen rejecting various acts from past series along to the tune of Unlimited's track No Limit.
While some of the worst contestants on the show are seen auditioning the clip also includes some of the most famous acts to have come from the show.
These include One Direction, JLS, Leona Lewis, Sam Bailey and Alexandra Burke - who all went on to have chart success after appearing on the talent show.
X Factor boss Simon Cowell, who is returning to the show this series is also seen in the clip - giving some of his most brutal rejections.
Got a story? email [email protected] or call us direct on 02077824220