The X Factor 2015: Plans for fifth judge 'legend' slots featuring Tom Jones, Dolly Parton and Rod Stewart reportedly scrapped

It was rumoured that Simon Cowell would introduce music legends in the live shows to spice up the format
Change of plans: The X Factor won't be bringing in 'legendary' fifth judges after all
Thames/Syco/Fremantle
Ben Travis29 October 2015

With the X Factor already falling behind in the ratings war, much speculation has been taking place about how Simon Cowell will entice viewers back to his singing competition.

One such idea was the possible introduction of a ‘fifth judge’ in the live shows – originally thought to be Louis Walsh returning to the series, and then reported to be a rotating slot for music legends including Tom Jones, Dolly Parton and Rod Stewart.

However, the ‘fifth judge’ idea has now reportedly been scrapped due to a lack of sufficient planning.

Speaking to The Sun, an inside source said: “Another idea has been tossed on the scrapheap, because it wasn’t planned well enough.

“The fifth ‘legend’ judge was a strange idea, borne out of a fear Strictly was pulling far ahead in the ratings.

“Up until a couple of days ago it looked like it would happen. Simon was keen. It really doesn’t look good.”

An X Factor source said: “Each year we discuss potential changes. The fifth judge was simply an idea discussed internally which we decided not to proceed with for now.”

X Factor Judges 2015

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There are no updates on whether Louis Walsh will make a return to the show.

The X Factor live rounds begin on Saturday October 31, with the final twelve acts fighting to keep their place in the competition.

ITV, Saturday, 8pm

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