The X Factor Returns With New Series, New Judge And New Rules

After a wait of what feels like forever, our favourite singing competition 'The X Factor' is set to hit our screens yet again for its ninth series.

Fans everywhere are set for a few more nights in as the talent show launches next Saturday (August 18th 2012) opening with a 75 minute special of its usual mind-blowing auditions. Returning to our judging panel is boy band manager Louis Walsh, former N Dubz star Tulisa Contostavlos and straight-talking Gary Barlow as well as new addition Pussycat Doll Nicole Scherzinger who is replacing Kelly Rowland. A new rule in the show has meant that anyone who is over 16 can audition even if they are already semi-professional, have had previous record deals or currently have a contract. Perhaps this means that there will be a lot more talent coming up on the show! The first episode of the series will air between two episodes of 'Britain's Got Talent' presenters Ant and Dec's game show 'Red or Black' and will come almost a month before its strong rival talent TV series 'Strictly Come Dancing'.

We may be watching 'The X Factor' with heavy hearts this year, however, following alpha judge Gary's terrible news from over the weekend when his wife gave birth to their stillborn daughter Poppy. He seems to be staying strong, though, and thanked his Twitter followers today for all their messages of comfort.