Sam Bailey Doesn’t Think Much of the New X Factor Panel

Sam Bailey has hit out at this year’s X Factor judging panel. The singer, who won the show in 2013, said that she thinks Cheryl Fernandez-Versini and co will be focused more on the younger contestants. Sam isn't expecting much from this year's panel. She told The Mirror: “The Overs don’t stand a chance this year. Would I survive? No, because three of the judges are very young and looking for young talent. “You’ve got someone from Radio 1 and I’m not really played on Radio 1. So I wouldn’t get much of a look in there. I’m a bit confused about the Nick Grimshaw thing.” The singer was dropped by her record label this year. Sam added: “Rita Ora has only been in the business for a few years but I’ve been in it for 20 years. They will be looking for a new star – someone who will be competing against the likes of Rita or Cheryl. “I’m old school. I’d rather have someone like Michael Bolton, Celine Dion or Bette Midler judging me. They’ve been in the business long enough to be respected in it.”