Louis Walsh won't be on the X Factor judging panel this year. The entertainment manager has quit the ITV talent show.
The Mayo native released the following statement describing his time on the singing competition as "fantastic".
"I've had a fantastic 13 years on The X Factor but the show needs a change and I'm ready to leave.
"I'm looking forward to another series of Ireland's Got Talent, going back to my day job as a manager, writing my memoirs and seeing the world!"
Walsh has featured on every season of the show bar one, since it first aired in 2004.
It's now reported Simon Cowell will be joined by three new judges for season 15 with Nicole Scherzinger also departing.
Meanwhile, Sharon Osbourne is said to only be taking part in the series' live shows.
Speaking to BBC News, the managing director of the show's production company Thames TV thanked Louis for his contribution to the show.
Amelia Brown said: “Louis has been a huge part of The X Factor’s success since it launched and remains a good friend of the show.
His contribution cannot be overstated. We would like to thank him for all he has given to the show over the years and look forward to continuing to work with him in the future.”
