Minogue moves on to X Factor panel

Dannii Minogue has been confirmed as a judge for the new series of The X Factor, in what the show's producers hope will be "a winning combination".

She replaces former judge and pop guru Louis Walsh, who was controversially axed from the show amid rumoured bickerings with Simon Cowell.

"I can't wait to be part of The X Factor team and getting up close and personal on a daily basis with Simon," Minogue beamed.

"Just because I'm the new girl, I won't be a pushover - he'll soon see my competitive streak."

The ever-popular Sharon Osbourne remains part of the panel which also welcomes the introduction of Brian Friedman, of Grease Is The Word fame.

It completes the new look line-up for the show, which had already announced chirpy Dermot O'Leary will be taking over from Kate Thornton as presenter.

The X Factor, which last month won the gong for Best Entertainment programme at the TV Baftas for the second year running, has proved a massive hit in recent years.

Auditions for the fourth series are well and truly underway, with thousands of hopefuls across the country desperate to follow in the footsteps of previous winners Steve Brookstein, Shayne Ward and Leona Lewis.
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