Despite rumours that Mel B is ready to sign on the dotted line and join the ‘X Factor’ judging panel, new reports suggest former Radio 1 DJ Sara Cox could be this year’s fourth judge.
While the show’s bosses are keen to get Mel B to agree a deal, Sara is apparently being lined up as a possible candidate.
Sara Cox
A source told The Sun: “Bosses are pretty certain they will be able to officially unveil Mel B as the fourth X Factor judge next week but she hasn’t signed a deal yet.
“There have been upsets in the past with the judging panel and so producers want to have other names in the frame if they are needed.”
“Sara Cox is an intriguing one,” they added. “She met with producers last week and talked over the role and told them she was interested.”
Sara has hosted a number of different shows on BBC radio, including the breakfast show between 2000 and 2003.
Sara stood in for Fearne Cotton during her maternity leave, covering the daytime slot and presenting segments from the Live Lounge. She currently presents ‘Sounds of The ‘80s’ on Radio 2.
Mel B is also a strong contender for the job
Simon recently confirmed that the fourth judge is a woman, explaining that it’s been tough making the final call.
“We’ve settled on someone. It’s not just finding a name, it’s someone who’s going to do the job,” he told the paper. “They’ve got to really commit to the artists and that’s why it’s been a long decision. It’s a female.”
Last week, it was reported that Mel B has been given a week to prove herself worthy of the ‘X Factor’ role and there’s also been speculation over who will present spin-off show ‘The Xtra Factor’ this year, with Rylan and Laura Whitmore rumoured to be replacing Caroline Flack and Matt Edmonson.
