Walsh upset over Sharon's 'X Factor' exit

Louis Walsh has admitted that he is devastated by Sharon Osbourne's decision to quit X Factor.

The Irish judge said that appearing on the programme would not be as enjoyable without Sharon, who has been one of his close friends since they started working together four years ago.

"The show won't be the same for me now," Walsh explained in a statement. "She was the best friend I made on the show. I'm going to miss her."

Simon Cowell added: "Sharon has been a huge part of the success of this show, but I understand her reasons for wanting to leave."

Meanwhile, Dannii Minogue, who has claimed that Osbourne bullied her on the set of the programme, said: "I'm shocked Sharon is leaving. I know her fans will miss her."

Osbourne announced that she was leaving the talent series after her request for a £1 million pay increase was denied.