The X Factor 0 judges announced

The X Factor 2013 judges announced

Legendary judge Sharon Osbourne returns to The X Factor alongside Gary Barlow, Nicole Scherzinger and Louis Walsh

Dermot O'Leary is back as host

Brand new double auditions for 2013 with return of audition rooms alongside arenas

The nation's most talked about entertainment show is back with a bang for 2013 with a new addition to the judging panel and brand new double auditions.

Rock royalty Sharon Osbourne makes a triumphant return to the show, joining Take That superstar Gary Barlow, US pop star Nicole Scherzinger and Svengali manager Louis Walsh in the search for the nation's next big singing sensation. Outspoken and unpredictable Sharon was one of the original X Factor judges from 2004-2007 and has more than 30 years' experience in the music industry, managing some of the biggest bands in rock.

Award-winning broadcaster and presenter Dermot O'Leary will preside over the action once more offering support, encouragement and a shoulder to cry on to aspiring stars, as well as the important job of keeping the judges in check.

And in the first of an exciting range of new changes for the 10th series of The X Factor, hopefuls will - for the first time ever - have to tackle two sets of auditions. First, they will face the judges eyeball to eyeball in an intimate audition room.

If they receive three or more yeses here they will then have to perform for the judges once more, this time in an arena, to prove they can also impress an audience before securing a coveted place at the next stage in the competition.

Speaking of the new series, Simon Cowell says: "Three words I never thought Id say.... Welcome back Sharon!"

Peter Fincham, Director of Television, ITV says: Were delighted to confirm our fantastic panel, who will bring an incredible combined wealth of experience to our 10th series of The X Factor. I know I speak for all of us when I say were looking forward to bringing viewers a brilliant series this autumn."

Speaking of her return Sharon Osbourne says: I couldn't be happier about coming back for the 10th anniversary of X factor. I can't wait to give Gary Barlow a big hug, sit next to the gorgeous Nicole, and of course throw water on dear Louis. Yay!

With 20 years in the music industry, Gary Barlow is one of Britain's most successful and respected singer songwriters. Commenting on the forthcoming series, he says: Its great to be back for the 10-year anniversary of X Factor and my third year with the show. This year is looking to be our best yet! To have a winner like James Arthur last year was a big game changer; I really hope that his authenticity and credibility will attract acts of a similar talent this series and Im very excited about that.

After winning viewers over with her enthusiasm, energy and her triumphant victory with James Arthur last year, global pop superstar Nicole Scherzinger is hoping to make it a double victory this year. Speaking about the new series she says: I had so much fun and such a great experience on the show last year it far exceeded all my expectations! I always give 110% to all I do and I put everything else on hold to focus on X Factor and supporting my Scherzy boys. This year, now that I've worked out doing my new music and the show together, I am so excited to get back to the UK, my second home, and get stuck into X Factor 2013!

And renowned music manager Louis Walsh cements his role on the panel with a record 10th series. Talking of his longevity, Louis says: Im back with a vengeance! Ten years on and Im just as thrilled to be involved in the best show on TV and even more delighted to be re-united with original judge Sharon Osbourne. Let the fun and games commence!

Much loved host, Dermot O'Leary says: We've got a great line-up this year, and Mrs O is always a riot and a brilliant mentor, it should be fun.

Richard Holloway, Managing Director of Thames, says: Sharon's countless years in the music industry along with her passion and her previous time on the show make her the perfect addition to the judging panel. Her return coupled with our new auditions mean this series of the X Factor is sure to be packed full of great singing and lots of entertainment for everyone.

Open auditions for the series have already seen thousands of hopefuls turn out across the country with the hope of making their dream come true of becoming the next big singing sensation. The judges' auditions will start on 4th June in Glasgow before visiting Birmingham, Manchester, London and Cardiff. This will be followed by the second stage of judges' arena auditions in July.

LINK:	http://www.itv.com/presscentre/press-releases/x-factor-2013-judges-ann...
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