So THIS is what the NEW judges have to say about X Factor return

After months of speculation the judges for this year's X Factor have finally been announced and it seems there'll be a few familiar faces returning to the show.

Nicole Scherzinger, Sharon Osbourne and Louis Walsh – who have all mentored winners in the past – are set to join Simon Cowell on his hunt for the next big name in music.

The new (or is it old?) judges will replace Cheryl, Rita Ora and Nick Grimshaw who all chose not to return to the judging panel this year.

Speaking of her return, Nicole, who controversially turned down a role in a Broadway production of Cats to be part of this year's X Factor, said: “I can’t wait to be back in the UK and on the show with the best judges sitting alongside me on the panel.  I'm excited about discovering, mentoring and winning with an exciting new act this year."

Mayo man Louis Walsh said he's excited to return to the show and, most importantly, is looking forward to this year's Dublin auditions.

Meanwhile Sharon, who recently decided to divorce husband Ozzy, has decided to focus on the real benefits of returning to the show – meeting Simon’s baby!

She said: “I’m overjoyed about going back to the X Factor, sitting with Lou, Lou, gorgeous Nicole and naughty Simon. But most of all, I can’t wait to meet baby Eric.”

Dermot O’Leary is going to reprise his role as host after a series-long break which saw Caroline Flack and Olly Murs take his place.

And as one final blast from the past, the infamous room auditions will be part of this year’s show.

The first auditions will take place in Leicester on June 10.