Olly Murs Suggests He Might Not Be 'On Talking Terms' With Simon Cowell Over 'X Factor' Snub

"It was difficult to tell him no."

Olly Murs has suggested his relationship with Simon Cowell is on shaky ground, after he snubbed the chance to join the ‘X Factor’ judging panel to stay on ‘The Voice UK’.

The ‘Heart Skips A Beat’ singer has a long history with ‘The X Factor’, starting out as a contestant and later going on to host spin-off show ‘The Xtra Factor’.

He’s also served as a helper as judge’s house and, lest we forget, hosted the show for one ill-fated series, alongside Caroline Flack.

Olly Murs
Olly Murs
Mike Marsland via Getty Images

After joining ‘The Voice’ as a new coach last year, Olly was then offered the chance to jump ship and take up a seat on the ‘X Factor’ panel, though he turned Simon down - something it sounds like the music mogul didn’t sound too happy about.

I have so much respect for Simon and it was difficult to tell him no,” Olly told The Mirror. “I’m not sure we’re on talking terms.

“I felt I had such a great time on ‘The Voice’, why would I leave after one year? I felt I did an incredible job last year and I’m very proud of that. It was a good move.”

Simon Cowell
Simon Cowell
Axelle/Bauer-Griffin via Getty Images

However, Olly clearly hasn’t turned his back on his old stomping ground completely, as he’s tipped to perform his new single ‘Moves’, which features Snoop Dogg, later in this year’s ‘X Factor’ live shows.

Last year, it was reported that Simon was “not happy” that Olly had signed up to “swap allegiances” and appear on a rival talent show.

In the end, Olly’s proposed seat on the ‘X Factor’ judging panel went to Robbie Williams, who is currently serving as a mentor alongside his wife, Ayda Field, and former One Direction singer Louis Tomlinson.

Close

What's Hot