It has been announced that Dermot O’Leary is leaving the X Factor after presenting the show for eight years.

In a statement Dermot said: "After eight wonderful years on The X Factor it's time for me to move on.

"I'd like to thank ITV, Simon, The X Factor family and particularly the viewers, all of whom have been a big part of my life for so long.

"I'd like to wish the team all the best for the future, especially whoever takes over from me. You're about to be the conductor on the most brilliant, runaway train in showbiz. Good luck you'll love it!"

This could be yet another major blow for the show which has suffered major criticism and a sharp decrease in ratings in recent years.

Dermot helped the show reach the level of popularity the show did at its peak having taken over from original presenter Kate Thornton. The show enjoyed some popularity in the early days but it is safe to say that Dermot’s appointment to the show made it as popular as it has become.

Will the fact that Dermot has now stepped down be the final nail in the coffin for a show which has struggled for the last few years? Simon Cowell has been desperately clinging on to the format and has attempted to shake things up by introducing new judges and even coming back himself to improve the ratings. The one constant that has remained through the successful years that the show has enjoyed is Dermot so Cowell’s next move will have to be planned very carefully.

There have been no hints as to who may replace Dermot as yet despite plenty of speculation and only time will tell if they will give the franchise the shake up it needs.

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