Simon Cowell is taking some time off from starting this season's X Factor auditions after the passing of his mother, Julie, on Sunday.
The music mogul is set for a return to filming tomorrow after being left 'devasted' at the news of his mum's death.
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A family spokesman said: "Today our beloved mum Julie passed away (aged 89). Anyone who had met her would know what a truly special and kind lady she was.
"We are heartbroken and will miss her terribly, but she is now at peace."
Julie, who had battled cancer in the 90s, was very close to her son and was said to have been ill since autumn.
On Monday, X Factor auditions at Salford’s Event City, Manchester, for the ITV show were cancelled. Following that, Tuesday’s two sessions were also postponed.
There will be extra audition sessions on Thursday.
A source close to Simon, said: “Simon needs time to get over the death of Julie, it is a huge loss for him and his family.
“But at the same time, he knows how many people are involved in the X Factor and doesn’t like to let people down.
“Julie was a big fan of the show, so it feels right to take some time out and then come back and work on the show later in the week.”
A spokesman for X Factor said: “We can confirm that The X Factor auditions scheduled for tomorrow (Tues) have been cancelled.
"We will now start auditions in Manchester on Wednesday and Thursday this week."
Applause Store tweeted: "Hi all. A decision has JUST been made for The X Factor Manchester. Tuesday cancelled, Wednesday is on + Thursday added!"
And Simon is currently scheduled to attend both Wednesday and Thursday's auditions.
Since hearing the news, some celebrities took to Twitter to offer their condolences, including Olly Murs, Sharon Osborne, Niall Horan and Stacey Solomon:
Our thoughts are with Simon and his family at this difficult time.