Walsh confirmed for 'X Factor' return

Louis Walsh is coming back to 'The X Factor' judging panel after show bosses confirmed his return.

The Irish music manager, who masterminded the careers of Boyzone and Westlife, will join Gary Barlow as a judge on the ITV1 talent show when it returns this year.

N-Dubz star Tulisa Contostavlos is also expected to return, with former judge Dannii Minogue expected to take the place of Kelly Rowland.

Walsh, who has appeared on the show since its launch in 2004, said: “I’m back. It’s my ninth year on the show and as the only remaining original judge I’m delighted to take my seat once more on the judging panel.”

Show supremo Simon Cowell said: “The show wouldn’t be the same without Louis, I am really happy he is coming back. I hope he has an opportunity this year to show what an astute manager he is.”

ITV’s director of television Peter Fincham said Walsh was “an X Factor institution”.