Dermot O'Leary returns to The X Factor

The fans favourite is back

Published 29th Mar 2016

It's only been 12 months since his departure but now Dermot O'Leary has sensationally signed up to return to The X Factor for its 13th series.

Dermot presented the talent show for eight years before departing at the end of series 11 in 2014, but now the popular presenter is back after signing a mammoth new deal with Simon Cowell.

The deal, which is reportedly worth £1.5 million, was sealed last week after it was suggested Simon 'missed Dermot like the fans'.

Dermot is said to be delighted with the news saying "I'm flattered to be asked back to The X Factor, and I'm currently dusting off my dancing shoes.”

Dermot O'Leary | © PA Images

The 42-year-old went on to say "The show is naturally very close to my heart, after having hosted it for eight years. I'm really looking forward to it and excited to be back."

The news of Dermot's return comes just months after it emerged last year's hosts, Olly Murs and Caroline Flack, would not be returning to the show.

Caroline Flack and Olly Murs | © PA Images

In a ploy to win back viewers to the show, boss Simon Cowell has also announced the famous audition room will make a comeback when the show starts later in the year.

It seems Simon may have taken advice from his new presenter, back in January whilst talking about the show, Dermot said he enjoyed the room auditions the most and would bring them back.

Auditions are set to begin for series 13 in early April, but with no judges confirmed for the show yet, we expect to hear a few announcements very soon.