Louis Walsh - Walsh Signs For Another X Factor

Irish pop mogul LOUIS WALSH has agreed to re-appear as a judge on British TV talent contest THE X FACTOR, after being lured back by a $180,000 (GBP100,000) pay rise.

Walsh, who launched the careers of boyband WESTLIFE, threatened to quit the popular show last year (NOV05) after claims he was bullied by fellow judges SIMON COWELL and SHARON OSBOURNE.

And revelations last week (ends30DEC05) that the pair earned more than him allegedly strengthened Walsh's resolve to walk out.

But British newspaper The Sun reports that Cowell has enticed him back for a third series by offering to match his salary with Osbourne's.

Walsh will now receive a staggering $900,000 (GBP500,000) for his talent-spotting skills.