Ronan Keating has hit out at talent show judges for "speaking down to artists", and suggested viewers "need a rest" from 'The X Factor'.

Ronan Keating

Ronan Keating

The 41-year-old singer - who previously spent time as a judge on the Australian version of the singing competition and 'The Voice' Down Under - has stressed the need for the format to be refreshed to keep things exciting, because he believes people are "exhausted" with singing and reality TV shows at the moment.

Speaking to Australia's Sunday Telegraph, he said: "I think we need a rest from shows like 'The X Factor' and so on. We need to refresh everything a bit and have a rethink about what we are looking for and how we do it.

"We are all exhausted with reality TV shows and singing shows and judges sitting up there and speaking down to artists and performers.

"We are exhausted by backstories and the emotional attachment stuff. I am not saying to stop it - I just think a rest is a good idea."

The 41-year-old star has signed up for Australia's take on BBC singing contest show 'All Together Now', but insisted the programme offers something different.

He explained: "It is a breath of fresh air. We are not promising the world to these people. We are not trying to make them global superstars or give them record deals.

"It is just about getting up, having a bit of fun and we will give you $100,000 if you are good enough."

Last month, Ronan said he enjoys how much viewers Down Under embrace similar shows.

He said: "I love the way people all across Australia get involved in shows like this and I think 'All Together Now' has the ability to captivate the nation."