Rita Ora has suggested she won't return to 'The X Factor' in 2016.

Rita Ora

Rita Ora

The 25-year-old pop star - who mentored eventual winner Louisa Johnson this year - has hinted she is to walk away from the ever-popular talent contest amid reports that her friend and fellow judge Nick Grimshaw is also set for the axe.

Speaking last night (13.12.15), Rita told 'Xtra Factor': "As a new judge it's a good way to leave the show."

Rita's remarks come shortly after an insider claimed Nick, 31, is to be booted from the programme.

A source said: "It feels like the writing has been on the wall for him. He has got better, but it's too little too late."

It's thought that either Louis Walsh or One Direction star Louis Tomlinson - who joined Simon Cowell at judges' houses this year - will replace him on the judging panel.

Tomlinson, 23, has previously admitted to being interested in the job.

He said: "I've handed my CV to Simon for next year's show, so we will see how it goes. It's definitely something I am thinking about. I am the biggest 'X Factor' fan and I would love to be there week in, week out and really give that level of passion. I think I would be a decent judge.

"I've been in Simon's ear the last few years about helping him out, so when he did actually ask me officially I was honoured. It was more me asking him non-stop, a lot of relentless nagging. I'd love to do more judging to be honest. It's been great to be involved in the process."