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Olly Murs and Caroline Flack to host The X Factor
Olly Murs and Caroline Flack have been confirmed as the new presenters of The X Factor, taking over from Dermot O'Leary
In the worst kept secret in TV, it has finally been announced that Olly Murs and Caroline Flack are to be the new presenters of The X Factor, becoming the first ever duo to host the singing contest.
Murs, who finished as runner-up to Joe McElderry in series six of The X Factor in 2009, had been widely tipped as the new host of the entertainment show after Dermot O'Leary announced last month that he was stepping down from the position after eight years.
The pair previously co-hosted The Xtra Factor on ITV2 from 2011 to 2013 and Murs admitted that he would only take the job of presenting the main show if Flack could join him. And after Murs dropped a huge hint to fans at a gig in Dublin three days ago, bookmakers suspended bets on the next host.
Olly Murs performing on The X Factor in 2009. Credit:
ITV
Simon Cowell, the show's creator, said: “I am absolutely delighted Caroline and Olly are both returning to The X Factor. When they were on Xtra together, they were a brilliant double act. Since then, Caroline’s gone from strength to strength – and Olly has become one of Britain’s biggest stars. So now I’m looking forward to them fronting the main show."
Murs released his self-titled debut album in November 2010, which became the biggest-selling debut album of the year. He has since released a further three albums and has had four UK No1 singles. His current UK tour ends in Manchester next week.
Flack, meanwhile, is the current Strictly Come Dancing champion, having won the 2014 series with dance partner Pasha Kovalev. She has also just been announced as the host of the re-vamped ITV2 show Love Island, which will be filmed this summer.
Caroline Flack dancing with Pasha Kovalev on Strictly Come Dancing in 2014. Credit: BBC
"I'm beyond excited about presenting The X Factor with Olly. To have the privilege of doing this with someone who makes me laugh out loud is a massive bonus!" said Flack.
“I'm incredibly proud to be returning to The X Factor alongside Caroline. I love the show and it kick-started my career in music which has given me the opportunity to do what I love. I already have the best job in the world and it's about to get better - I can't wait to get started and be part of finding some amazing new talent!” said Murs.
The new series of The X Factor returns to ITV in autumn this year. Further details about this year’s judging panel are yet to be announced. Mel B and Louis Walsh’s positions are thought to be uncertain, though it is thought that Cowell and Cheryl Fernandez-Versini will remain. Those rumoured for the new line-up include American TV star Kim Kardashian and The Voice's Rita Ora.