In last minute changes to Simon Cowell's new show Walk The Line singer Mabel has pulled out as a judge. It appears the Swedish-English singer-songwriter had a change of heart.
In better news for Simon and the show, Dawn French and Alesha Dixon are reportedly set to join the judging panel.
A source told The Sun “The comedian (Dawn French) may seem like a surprising choice for a judge on a contest that’s all about music . . . until you realise she’s always had a crush on her new boss.
"But she also comes with over 40 years of experience in showbiz, starring in sitcoms, sketch shows, films and on the West End. So she knows how to spot talent."
“Alesha was an obvious choice for Simon when he was looking for his fourth judge.
“She is perfect for Walk The Line and everyone working on the show was so pleased when her schedule lined up with the filming dates.
In a departure from the traditional TV talent show, the six-part series will debut on ITV and ITV Hub later in the year, offering musical variety acts a chance to win a life changing prize pot. But to win the money, talent alone isn’t enough - the contestants will need nerves of steel as they determine whether to cash out or physically Walk The Line and risk it all to stay in the competition.
The TV event format sees musical acts - be they soloists, duos, bands, or choirs - take to the stage to perform for the nation, as well as a panel of judges headed up by Simon Cowell. The top two performers of the evening then face a nail-biting decision in their bid to be crowned champion - to either ‘cash out’ with a tempting cash prize, or walk the line and play on. Should they stay in and top the leaderboard, they will then progress to the next show, facing a different cast of performers.
The longer the performers can stay in the contest, the bigger the prize pot, with a high stake ‘stay or play’ moment at the end of each show. Each night, the reigning champion will be offered an even higher cash out prize - will they take the money and leave the competition, or Walk The Line and bet on themselves…?
Filming for the show begins next week, with the show expected to air in December.
