The X Factor 2016 judging panel confirmed as Simon Cowell, Sharon Osbourne, Louis Walsh and Nicole Scherzinger

The new X Factor judging panel has been announced, and the show has gone back to the future for this year's series. 

Returning to the ITV talent competition alongside Simon Cowell will be three of its most popular judges: Sharon Osbourne, Louis Walsh and Nicole Scherzinger.

Louis and Sharon made up the original X Factor judging panel with Simon 12 years ago - while Nicole has appeared on both the US and UK lineups. 

The panel will be kept in line by Dermot O'Leary, who was recently confirmed to be returning as host after a year off. 

"I'm overjoyed about going back to The X Factor, sitting with Lou, Lou, gorgeous Nicole and naughty Simon," said Sharon. "But most of all, I can't wait to meet baby Eric."

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"He'd say otherwise but I knew Simon missed me last year!" quipped Louis. "I'm delighted to be back on the panel especially beside my two favourite female judges Sharon and Nicole, and I'm looking forward to taking them all back to Dublin this year when we head there for auditions."

Nicole added: "I can't wait to be back in the UK and on the show with the best judges sitting alongside me on the panel. I'm excited about discovering, mentoring and winning with an exciting new act this year. And having had winning contestants in the past, Simon knows I will do it."

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And what did Simon have to say about it all? Simply: "Be careful what you wish for!"

Auditions for this year's X Factor kick off later this month.