**UPDATED STATEMENT BELOW**
X Factor judge Gary Barlow has surprised fans by confirming his resignation from the show live on air.
Whilst critiquing contestants Rough Copy, the Take That star said “I’ve been here for three years and I’m so glad that for my last year on the show I get to mentor you guys”, to which he was met by gasps from the crowd.
Barlow’s intention to leave comes as no surprise, as the star concentrates to go back in the studio with the rest of the Take That members for a new album, along with his own tour next year too. However, with this also being Louis Walsh’s final year, along with Sharon Osbourne, it leaves room for a massive shake-up of the hit ITV series.
UPDATE: In a statement, Gary Barlow has announced “I’ve had an amazing time on X Factor these past 3 years. A show like this needs to stay fresh and exciting so it’s a great opportunity for someone to come in and take the show past its incredible ten year anniversary. Next year is a very busy year for me & X Factor is a full time job so it felt like the right time to hand over the baton.”
