Photo: Wenn
The X Factor might've lost its appeal for some, with reports of dwindling numbers at auditions, but host Dermot O'Leary insists they're as exciting as ever, with nearly 8,000 wannabees showing up to audition in London.
The presenter also teased the judging panel for the next series, saying that no one was confirmed for the panel yet and that everything was upon the air.
Wannabees arrived at London’s ExCel as early as 5am, to secure a spot in front of the producers.
“It’s like the third round of the FA cup or the first game of the season,” O’Leary said.
“You’ve got a real sense of excitement.
“You meet people in all walks of life. There’s nothing as queer as folk and you never know who you are going to meet.”
In another interview, with ITN, O’Leary spoke of how he’d miss Olly Murs, who is not returning to host The Xtra Factor for a third year running.
“I will miss Olly, because he’s like a little brother to me, but I’m so glad for him because he loves doing this and the only reason he wouldn’t do this is because he’s so busy.”
But when asked about the judges for the next series of the show, O’Leary said it was still anyone’s guess, saying “No one has been confirmed.”
Nearly 8,000 people turned out for the London auditions
It had been thought that Gary Barlow, Louis Walsh and Nicole Scherzinger would all be returning, with Tulisa being given the boot and former-judge Sharon Osbourne in line to take her seat.
It was recently reported that the show’s plans had been thrown into turmoil after all four prospective judges asked for pay rises, with Osbourne allegedly demanding close to £2million.
Below: *face palm* Boris Johnson busks with X Factor's Misha B
