[Scarlett.]

Tabloid reports have claimed that Simon Cowell may miss the first X Factor live show due to illness.

According to the Daily Star, the judge is currently "laid up at home" and has only been able to keep in contact with his Over-25s group by phone. Cowell is mentoring Jamie Archer, Olly Murs and Danyl Johnson.

If he misses the show, it will be the first time he has been absent from the series in the programme's history. The 50-year-old reportedly came down with flu after holding large birthday celebrations last weekend.

However, according to Cowell's spokesperson and ITV1, he is still expected to take part this weekend. "We are expecting all four judges here on Saturday," said a show source.
The X Factor airs on Saturday at 8pm on ITV1.


Digital Spy