Louis Walsh has said that he was stabbed in the back regarding his departure from The X-Factor. Which is odd, because I'm sure I read a statement in which he said that it was time for him to move on. But you know what they say - the truth will out via the tabloids. Or do they? Possibly not.
Anyway, the pop manager has also criticised the removal of host Kate Thornton from the show. Personally, I think it's an inspired move as she's incredibly annoying, but there you go. Here's what the Walshster apparently told The Sun: "It was a bad move sacking Kate. She was like a mother figure for all the acts. She will be a big loss. It was made worse because Simon and ITV kept telling Kate she was safe, that she'd be staying. But it would seem Simon's word is not his bond. I was really shocked, I have to admit that. I did feel like I had been stabbed in the back. With Simon, it's all about work. He told me, 'It's nothing personal.'"
Simon Cowell has responded that the decision was out of his hands, however, and that ITV overruled him. Here's what he says: "Much like Coronation Street, we have to make changes to a long-running hit show - and sometimes, the most popular people have to go. Louis has been in discussions about the commitment he could offer, and he was so busy with his management career. It just worked out that it would be better if we got a new judge. I did put up arguments for Louis and Kate to stay, but ITV put up their arguments for them to go and it was their ultimate decision."