'Tulisa is a lippy brat'

Simon Cowell speaks out about new X Factor judges...

09:34 19 September 2011

Simon Cowell has described new X Factor judge Tulisa Contostavlos as a "lippy brat".

The former reality show judge handpicked the N-Dubz singer as a replacement for Cheryl Cole because he finds her "bolshy" and entertaining.

According to reports in the Sunday Mirror, Cowell said:

"[Tulisa is] a lippy brat. I like that. She's bolshy. She's got a good ear."

Cowell also puts his opinions across about the other new judges, Gary Barlow and Kelly Rowland:

"Gary's like a producer and he knows how to spot a star. He'll want to come in on his first year and win.

"Kelly, she's like an athlete and it's this American professionalism - she's always, always on it."

An X Factor insider also put an end to rumours that Cheryl was to return to the live shows, telling the tabloid that Cowell would never allow her to return:

"Simon thinks all the judges have done an absolutely amazing job this year.

"Cheryl became the nation's ­sweetheart... but the past few weeks have proved there is a lot of talent just as capable. Now Simon has decided it would be a backward step to reinstate her.

"He gets annoyed if anyone suggests Kelly Rowland or Tulisa may have to make way for her to return. That is categorically not going to happen."

This series of the X Factor currently airs on both Saturday and Sunday evenings on ITV1.