The X Factor returns for it’s second live show of the series this evening and it looks like it’s going to be a tense affair.

Gary Barlow stormed away from the judges table and off set last Sunday, when Louis Walsh saved Rylan Clark over his contestant Carolynne Poole and insiders say he still hasn’t forgiven the Irish star for his actions.

There was a ‘crisis meeting’ held in London on Tuesday night and sources claimed that the Take That star cold shouldered the former Westlife boss. Things were no better at yesterday’s dress rehearsal and an X Factor insider told Unreality TV:

“The atmosphere was still a bit strained between Louis and Gary at soundcheck yesterday.”

The pair are said to have remained ‘professional’ and no insults were slung, but the situation could come to a head this evening, as the men critique each other’s acts on the live show.

The source added:

“Everyone is waiting to see what happens tonight and to find out whether they’ll be friends or not.”

Former Westlife singer Kian Egan lept to the defence of his old boss yesterday, branding Gary as ‘grumpy’ and saying his angry behaviour was just an attempt to make himself seem more like Simon Cowell.

He blasted:

“I know Gary is a little more serious, he’s the serious singer, Grumpy Gary, always has to make sure that he makes the right comments… and I suppose he’s trying to fill the shoes of Simon Cowell in that way as well.”

What do you think? Is Gary just being unnecessarily grumpy, or is he right to hold Louis responsible for his actions?

Leave your comments below….

Find out what the contestants will be singing and check out the songlist for tonight’s show here.