‘The X Factor’ UK: Mel B to reportedly be confirmed as judge this week

“The X Factor” UK has taken its sweet time confirming the next member of its judging panel, but in the end, it feels like the show has ultimately decided to go with the obvious choice: Mel B.

Sources claim that the Spice Girls singer is going to be confirmed as the fourth judge alongside Louis Walsh, Cheryl Cole, and Simon Cowell this week, and the timing could not be more right when you consider the fact that auditions are going to be filmed very soon for a number of reasons. The show needs to get these taped in advance before the show premieres later this summer, but they also need to ensure that they can have Mel before she is forced to go back to America for the live shows on “America’s Got Talent.” She is going to have to pull double-duty for a while thanks to the way the schedules work out. Luckily, Simon’s talent contest in America should be over before the live “X Factor” rounds begin.

What do we think about Mel’s selection on the show overall? There are many things that we like about the idea of her on board the show, but also one thing that we worry about: There’s no way she brings in a ton of new viewers to the table. Simon needs someone who will bring buzz and attention to the show, who viewers wonder about. You already have enough people with significant experience on singing shows that you can afford to take a gamble on one new person. It’s a little different that season 2 of American version of “The X Factor,” when you had a lifeless Britney Spears and L.A. Reid both around at the same time.

Do you like the hire, if it sticks, or hate it? Share either way in the comments, and click here to get some further TV updates via our official newsletter.

Photo: ITV