'X Factor' 2016: Matt Edmondson Confirmed As New 'Xtra Factor' Host

Matt Edmondson has been announced as the new host of ‘The Xtra Factor’. 

The Radio 1 DJ will take the reins of ITV2’s ‘X Factor’ spin-off show when the talent competition returns later this year. 

In a tweak to the usual format, the show will be live from the start of the series, bringing viewers instant access to auditionees and the reaction to their auditions, as well as the usual mix of exclusive unseen auditions, backstage gossip.

Matt is taking over presenting duties from last year's hosts Rochelle Humes and Melvin Odoom, who are both departing after just one series in the role. 

Speaking about joining the show, Matt joked, "I am unbelievably excited about joining 'The Xtra Factor' this year, not least of all because on my first day Louis Walsh walked into my dressing room topless, unannounced. I regard this as the definition of ‘living the dream’”.

Matt is no stranger to the 'X Factor' franchise, having hosted online spin-off show 'The F Factor' back in 2010.

He was heavily tipped to replace Konnie Huq as the host of 'The Xtra Factor' a year later, but ultimately lost out on the gig to Caroline Flack and Olly Murs. 

Many other names had been linked to this year's series, with rumoured presenters including Rylan Clark-Neal, Laura Whitmore, Nicky Byrne, Roman Kemp and George Shelley. 

Matt is currently filming behind the scenes during the judge auditions, with further information about the show to be announced shortly.

Over on the main show, Dermot O'Leary has returned as host, after a brief break last year, while Simon Cowell has been joined on the panel by former judges Sharon Osbourne, Nicole Scherzinger and Louis Walsh.

'The X Factor' returns to ITV this autumn. 

Tap the image below to launch the slideshow...