Dermot O'Leary is leaving "The X-Factor" U.K.
The BBC reported that O'Leary is stepping down as host of the reality series competition after eight years on the show. O'Leary took to Twitter Friday to announce his departure and wish his replacement luck.
"After eight wonderful years on @TheXFactor it's time for me to move on," O'Leary tweeted. "I'd like to thank ITV, Simon [Cowell], The X Factor family and particularly the viewers, all of whom have been a big part of my life for so long. I'd like to wish the team all the best for the future, especially whoever takes over from me. You're about to be the conductor on the most brilliant, runaway train in showbiz. Good luck you'll love it."
"The X Factor" U.K. then issued this statement: "We'd like to thank Dermot for eight brilliant years at the helm of The X Factor. He has been a fantastic host, masterfully keeping the show on the road, supporting the contestants throughout the competition and keeping the Judges in check. We will miss him (and his dance moves). We wish him all the best for the future. An announcement on the host for the new series will be made in due course."
The Sun reported that Olly Murs and Caroline Flack will serve as O'Leary's temporary replacements. Several reports claim that "X Factor" creator/executive producer Cowell fired O'Leary.
"It was Simon's decision - he was bored of Dermot's presenting style and knew the show needed a big change of front person in order for the show to beat 'Strictly Come Dancing' in the ratings," the source explained to The Sun.
Another source added, "Simon has secretly met with Olly and Caroline. They're all fully on board. Olly is very much the new Dermot. It's a huge coup because of his music commitments."
