The singer/songwriter Rita Ora has spoken about her decision to join the famous talent show alongside Simon Cowell, Nick Grimshaw and Cheryl Fernandez-Versini.
In an interview with Lorraine Kelly on Wednesday, the 24 year-old confessed that she couldn't resist the new approach to the annual competition.
Speaking to the programme, the singer and actress said when she heard the plans for the new series of The X Factor she just wanted ‘to be a part of it’
'When Simon approached me and he explained to me the show and what they are planning to do this year, I wanted to be a part of it.
'What’s so great about the new line up - which is really exciting - is that you have four different perspectives, you know. You’ve got all these amazing musicians and business-minded people on the same panel that know music and I’m just happy to be a part of that.' Rita continued: 'It was the new line up, the plans that they have moving forward with the show, the changes, it just really got me excited and if I can find talent and help somebody I would, so for me it was perfect.'
She also revealed that her, Cheryl and Nick had got together for a drink and described the Girls Aloud star as ‘sweet’. 'I got to meet her when we had a separate meeting with the new line up - me, Grimmy and Cheryl - Simon wasn't there. It was a really amazing catch up, no pressure, we had a drink and it just felt really natural.'
When asked whether she knew Cheryl before joining the panel, Rita said: 'No I didn’t but I wish I did, she is so sweet.'
Rita will join the other judges next week at Manchester for the start of this years X Factor auditions.
