Simon Cowell has confirmed his return to The X Factor UK after spending three years Stateside working on the US version of the series.

The music mogul will lead the judging panel when the talent show returns for its eleventh series in the Autumn.

Speaking of his comeback, SiCo said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be returning to The X Factor UK. It’s been three years since I last judged the competition and I’m excited to find a global superstar again.”
“The UK X Factor has set the benchmark in finding worldwide superstars over the years – including One Direction, Leona Lewis, Cher Lloyd, Olly Murs , JLS and Little Mix.”

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Cowell continued: “Despite all the rumours, ITV and the producers have not decided on the rest of the judging panel quite yet. You’ll just have to wait and see...”
Peter Fincham, ITV’s director of television, stated: “It's fantastic news that Simon is returning to The X Factor. We are all very much looking forward to him re-joining the judging panel later this year."
Sara Geater, CEO Fremantle Media UK added: “We’re delighted to welcoming Simon back to the panel for this year’s X Factor and are looking forward to what is sure to be a great series.”
The rest of the X Factor UK judging panel is expected to be confirmed in the next few months, with former judge Cheryl Cole heavily rumoured to be making her return.

The news comes as reports suggest Louis Walsh is also expected to keep his seat on the panel.