Barlow confirms X-Factor exit

X FACTOR judge Gary Barlow has confirmed he is to step down from the talent contest at the end of this series, making the announcement mid-way through a live show.

The Take That front-man, mentoring the groups, commended three-piece Rough Copy as they closed the evening with a cover of the Phil Collins classic, In The Air Tonight. “I’m so glad for my last year on the show, I get to mentor you,” he said.

In a statement later, Barlow said: “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 10-year anniversary.”

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