Louis Walsh, the legendary artist manager has been an X Factor Judge from the very start. The man behind Boyzone, Westlife and Girls Aloud knows the music business inside out and as the longest standing Judge on the show he knows a thing or two about Judging too!

What makes The X Factor the best singing show on TV?

The X Factor is still one of the best shows on TV because every year there is always so much drama surrounding the show, not just with the singers but between us Judges too!

What are you going to do to make sure this year’s show is bigger and better than ever before?

It’s my ninth year on the show so I am just going to keep doing what I do!

Do you have any regrets from last year?

No, I’ve never have any regrets although I do wish I’d taken that Head Judge mug from Gary. It is rightly mine!

What is the talent like this year?

The talent has been great this year, every year I am surprised by the talent the UK has to offer.

Who are the ‘ones to watch’?

There are a number that I have my eye on but I’m not going to give away anything just yet!

What’s going to be your secret weapon this year to make sure that your category keeps all its acts the longest?

It’s all about the song choices. Picking the right songs for your artists each week is key.

What one piece of advice would you give to those who will go forward to the live shows?

My one bit of advice is to go out each week and give it your all.

What’s your golden rule that you’ll be telling each of your contestants?

To always be professional and listen to all the advice you are given.

Do you think you’ll get a different category this year?

Well the producers have promised me a good category this year so here’s hoping!!

Which category would you like?

I’d like to mentor the boys this year, there are some really strong singers in that category.

What are your best moments on The X Factor from the last nine years?

My favourite moments would have been with Sharon (Osbourne) we used to have so much fun on set and we loved winding Simon up, it was a bit like going to school each day and it never felt like work.

Who did you think was the best and worst guest Judge at the audition stages?

I love spending time with Nicole I think she is great fun. And Geri was Geri!

How are you and the other Judges getting along this time round?

Tulisa,Gary and I get on really well, we had a lot of fun together on the audition tour and I get on brilliantly with our new Judge Nicole too.