Gary: I have 'no respect' for Louis
Gary Barlow has "no respect" for Louis Walsh.
The 'X Factor' judge – who has clashed with his fellow panellist throughout the live stages of the ITV1 show – admitted taking part in the talent competition has been "10 times harder" than he initially imagined.
He said: "It's been 10 times harder than I expected. We're all so involved.
"I have no respect for what Louis has done musically. Westlife have done well but everything else, no."
The Take That singer explained while he is "very protective" over his three acts – Frankie Cocozza, Marcus Collins and Craig Colton – he "doesn't know what to do" with teen rebel Frankie, and wishes he would knuckle down and put more effort in to the competition.
Gary added to the Daily Star newspaper: "I feel very protective of my acts. I don't know what to do with Frankie. He's brilliant but I need something back. Get your f***ing songs learned."
Meanwhile, 'X Factor' boss Simon Cowell has told Louis his job on the panel – which also features Kelly Rowland and Tulisa Contostavlos – is "safe" amid rumours he would be axed from the show at the end of the current series.
Simon reportedly text Louis, saying: "You have my word, your job is safe."
Despite a drop in 'X Factor' viewing figures, the 52-year-old music mogul wants to give the new judging line-up time to "bed in".
A source added: "Simon knows a new panel needs time to bed in. He’s not worried, the show is still pulling in millions of viewers. And these claims Louis is getting the elbow are utter nonsense.”
