Louis Walsh's return to The X Factor CONFIRMED but at a cost - literally
AFTER months of speculation, the cat is finally out of the bag - Louis Walsh is returning to The X Factor but his place has come at a cost.
Louis Walsh's return to The X Factor has been onfirmed
The Irish music mogul has bought his comeback with a huge donation to charity at the Music Industry Awards.
The longest-serving judge on the flailing singing show was replaced by BBC Radio One DJ Nick Grimshaw earlier this year and has since seen his public demand sky-rocket.
Supporting his friend and former boss Simon Cowell - who was honoured with a Special Contribution to the Music Industry Award at last night's star-studded bash - Louis, 63, stood up and raised his hand to pay a whopping £20,000 to head back to his old office for a day during rehearsals.
According to spectators, Simon was gobsmacked with Louis' bid but immediately began chuckling.
Louis and pal Sinitta support close friend and boss Simon Cowell
Sadly, it's unlikely that Louis will be making an appearance on screen and will just rejoin the show for a dress rehearsal.
The awards raised money for Nordoff Robbins and the BRIT trust.
Speaking to press at the event, Louis admitted he's enjoying watching The X Factor from the comfort of his own sofa.
X Factor 2015: The final 12
Simon was honoured at the Music Industry Awards
He said: "It's my first time sitting at home in 11 years, it's great - in my pyjamas, watching X Factor. But he looks different, his face - is it the lighting, is it the make-up?"
Speaking of his return, he continued: "Oh I don't know, I'm keeping an eye on it. I love Louisa and I love Che. They're the two people I love."
The X Factor has been struck with its lowest figures to date
But amid a drastic slump in viewing figures, Louis had some well-advised words of wisdom for Simon: "You've made too many changes. Listen to the public. He has to listen to the public - he will for next year."
The X Factor continues this Saturday at 7.30pm on ITV.