Louis Walsh responds to rumours he’s been sacked by X Factor producers

He says there’s no way he’s leaving.

Yesterday, it was reported that this year’s X Factor panel would see a huge shake-up with sources saying that Louis and Sharon would be dropped from the show. Yes, as the show heads into its 15^th year, rumours are circulating that original judges Louis Walsh and Sharon Osborne will not be returning. However, Louis Walsh has now responded to the recent reports and is adamant that he’s going nowhere. “I have spoken to Sharon,” he told The Sun. “She’s said that they can only sack us if they pay us. My contract is watertight. "I’ve checked it out with someone and have told Simon that.” According to reports yesterday, producers have “lost faith” in the original judges, with sources saying “they were both terrible on the panel last year”. However, Louis says that all is not over just yet. “Simon has asked me to come and see him in LA. Sharon did say she was surprised she hadn’t been given any filming dates. I don’t think they’ve finalised what they’re going to do with the panel.” The reports over the weekend were very critical of the judges – Nicole Scherzinger included. “Louis has had a great run, but he’s advertising hearing aids for God’s sake. It’s beyond a joke. And Sharon couldn’t even remember some of her own contestants’ names. “Nicole was a passionate judge but has no contract and won’t be back this year in order to bring in fresh blood.”