The Mirror has reported that Brian Friedman will be the X factor’s new judge, replacing Louis Walsh who was sacked earlier this year.

Brian is currently appearing on ITV’s Grease Is the Word and has proved popular with the younger (probably female) viewers.

A TV insider said: “As there will be a kids category, it makes sense to have a younger judge. Simon has been really impressed with his performance on Grease – Brian is bitchy and proud of it.”