Sharon Osbourne leaves The X Factor

Sharon Osbourne is leaving The X Factor.

A statement was issued on behalf of Ms Osbourne which said: “Sharon Osbourne announced today that after four fantastic and successful series of the X Factor she has decided to leave the show.

“Sharon would like to thank the wonderful British public for their enormous support during what's been an exciting ride.

“She would also like to take this opportunity to thank Simon Cowell and ITV while wishing them all the best for the next series.

“Sharon will be making no further comment.”

An ITV spokesman said: "Sharon Osbourne has decided to leave The X Factor after four fantastic years. ITV thanks her for her immense contribution to the show and for all her humour, compassion and energy. She has been a tremendous judge and mentor on the programme but we respect her wish to leave and wish her the very best with her future projects."

The Internet Forum has previously speculated that Sharon Osbourne would not be back on The X Factor this year after her shambolic contributions in 2007 when she walked out of the first show in a strop and selected weak acts which were soon voted off the show.

The UK press refer to reported high pay demands by Ms Osbourne and her jealousy towards and comments about Dannii Minogue as factors behind the decision.

Sharon Osbourne to leave The X Factor?

The X Factor forum