The worst kept secret in reality TV has finally been revealed - Mel B has been announced as the final, and new, judge on The X Factor.
Scary Spice has previous experience judging on the show as she was a guest judge in 2012 - leaving an 82-year-old hopeful on the verge of tears after telling him that she 'wanted to fall asleep' during his performance.
Talk about living up to your name!
In a deal, reportedly worth £1 million, Mel will join Simon Cowell, staple judge Louis Walsh (yes, even after saying he's not returning - he is!) and comeback-girl Cheryl Cole on the panel.
"I'm so excited to be joining The X Factor - I loved being a guest judge back in 2012. I've always thought honesty is the best policy when being a judge and that's what I'm going to bring more of this year - whether it's spotting an incredible singer, giving someone a reality check or debating the Simon over who's got it wrong! Now I can't wait to get started and find some amazing talent," Mel said.
Simon is also thrilled to have Mel on board, saying, "I thought she was fantastic as a guest judge a couple of years ago. She s feisty, opinionated and, I believe, will be a great mentor."
Now, call me cynical, but I can easily see fireworks between feisty Mel and even feistier Cheryl, who already has beef with our 'Lou Lou.'
"They don't get on great, but they're just going to have to,' Simon said about the frictions between Louis and Cheryl.
Dermot O'Leary has also been confirmed to be returning as host, and the audition phases will be in two parts this year, with the first being a closed audition, and then a big arena performance, before Bootcamp and the all-exciting Judges Houses round.
The X Factor auditions begin on Monday, in Manchester, and will be back on our screens in August, on ITV.
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