Although our spirits were SLIGHTLY lifted when we heard Olly Murs may replace Dermot O’Leary on The X Factor, Dermot is still leaving the ITV talent show.
It was reported earlier this month that the 41-year-old was told by show bosses they were looking for a replacement and now news has come in that Dermy was NOT axed from his position as presenter – he chose to leave.
Dermot tweeted leaving was the 'best decision'.
A rep for Dermy told MailOnline: "Dermot chose to step down and was not axed." Caroline Flack is also in the running to join Olly. Although a rep of Olly’ said he was in discussions about the role, nothing had been confirmed.
A source told The Sun: "Simon has secretly met with Olly and Caroline. They're all fully on board."
Olly finished in second place on the programme in 2009 and even presented The Xtra Factor alongside Caroline for two years, so he’s certainly well placed to join the series.
Bookies William Hill says Olly is is the 7/2 favourite to replace Dermot with Emma Willis and Rylan Clark the 6/1 joint second faves.
Dermot, who was on the show for eight years, announced his departure from the show yesterday.