X Factor: Familiar faces return to judging panel

The new X Factor judging panel has been revealed - and three familiar faces are making a comeback.

Sharon Osborne, Louis Walsh and Nicole Scherzinger will return to the panel after stints away.

The trio will help Simon Cowell, the show's creator and music mogul, in trying to find the next One Direction, Leona Lewis or Olly Murs.

They replace Nick Grimshaw, Rita Ora and Cheryl Fernandez-Versini who all quit the show after the last series.

Simon Cowell with last year's judging and presenting line-up. Credit: PA Wire

Osborne, one of the original judges on the show, said she was "overjoyed" about her return.

“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.”

Former Pussycatt Dolls star Scherzinger enjoyed a two-year stint on the panel before leaving in 2013.

“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. And having had winning contestants in the past, Simon knows I will do it.”

Dermot O'Leary will return as host. Credit: PA Wire

Walsh, who sat on the panel for 12 years before he was replaced by DJ Nick Grimshaw, said he knew Simon missed him last year.

“He’d say otherwise but I knew Simon missed me last year!

"I’m delighted to be back on the panel especially beside my two favourite female judges Sharon and Nicole, and I’m looking forward to taking them all back to Dublin this year when we head there for auditions.”

Dermot O'Leary is also returning as host, replacing Caroline Flack and Olly Murs.

The new series kicks off later this summer.