entertainment: gossip

Louis Walsh hits back after being dropped from The X Factor

Sunday March 11th 2007

Louis Walsh has revealed his shock and anger at being dropped from The X Factor. He is also upset at Kate Thornton being given the boot as the show's presenter.

Louis said, "It was a bad move sacking Kate. She was like a mother figure for all the acts. She will be a big loss. It was made worse because Simon and ITV kept telling Kate she was safe, that she'd be staying. But it would seem Simon's word is not his bond."

"I was really shocked, I have to admit that. I did feel like I had been stabbed in the back. With Simon, it's all about work. He told me, 'It's nothing personal.'"

In defence Simon Cowell is maintaining that the decision to drop Louis and Kate was not made by him. He insists that ITV forced his hand but argues that Louis was actually quite happy with the decision.

Simon said, "Much like Coronation Street, we have to make changes to a long-running hit show - and sometimes, the most popular people have to go. Louis has been in discussions about the commitment he could offer, and he was so busy with his management career. It just worked out that it would be better if we got a new judge. I did put up arguments for Louis and Kate to stay, but ITV put up their arguments for them to go and it was their ultimate decision."

Cat Deeley, currently in the States working on American Idol, is believed to be the front runner to replace Kate. Louis' replacement is less clear but Radio 1 DJ Chris Moyles has been mentioned as a possible candidate.