A war of words looks likely this week between X Factor judges Simon Cowell and
Louis Walsh, after Walsh's shock departure from the show last week.
As reported last week,
[read: Louis Walsh leaves X Factor], Walsh has left the show after three years judging and mentoring talent from across the UK, along with presenter Kate Thornton.
However, Walsh says his departure wasn't amiable, as was led to believe last week, and the Irish music manager says Cowell's part in the decision left a bad taste in his mouth.
"I was really shocked, I have to admit that," he says. "I did feel like I had been stabbed in the back. With Simon it's all about work. He told me, 'It's nothing personal.'"
"It was a bad move sacking Kate. She was like a mother figure for all the acts. She will be a big loss," he adds over the show's host getting the axe. "It was made worse because Simon and ITV kept telling Kate she was safe. It would seem Simon's word is not his bond."
However, Cowell was quick to defend himself, claiming Walsh wasn't able to commit enough time to the show - particularly with a number of his acts planning a big year of releases and touring (including a reformed Boyzone) "Louis has been in discussions about the commitment he could offer and he was too busy with his managerial career," says Cowell. It just worked out that it would be better if we got a new judge.
"I did put up arguments for Louis and Kate to stay, but ITV put up their arguments for them to go, and it was their decision."
