Sharon Osbourne: Elton John’s dirty texts get me through X Factor auditions

Returning X Factor judge Sharon Osbourne has revealed that her filthy sense of humour – and explicit texts from Sir Elton John – have helped her beat boredom during the audition rounds.

In a format shake up, the four judges are now subjected to singing hopefuls’ auditions twice – once in a private room and again in front of a live audience.

‘I tell Louis dirty jokes,’ the 60-year-old music manager laughed when asked how she avoids drifting off during the hours of auditions.

‘And sending me dirty notes,’ Louis confirmed, adding: ‘Elton John tells her all the dirty jokes.’

‘No he sends me all the filthy pictures,’ Shaz corrected her co-judge.

Having rejoined the show after a six season absence, Sharon is thrilled to be back on The X Factor judging panel. And unlike her famous rivalry with former co-judge Dannii Minogue, Sharon will not be sharpening her talons for current panel babe Nicole Scherzinger.

‘It is not going to happen because if anyone had done their homework they would know she was my guest at judges’ homes [in series 4]. We have been friends for years,’ she said.

And when it comes to a style off, Sharon will not be wearing any plunging necklines, saying: ‘The queen doesn’t have to do that,’ and added that a fashion clash with Nicole would never happen, saying: ‘Please. All my stuff is one-of-a-kind couture.’

Looking ahead to the live shows, Sharon also revealed she is desperate to avoid the groups in this years’ competition, saying: ‘I couldn’t have the groups. I couldn’t remember any f**ker’s name. I get confused. And who are you? Really,’ she laughed.

‘Five and six people in a band, who can deal with that? One person’s name is enough.’

[Originally published Metro Guilty Pleasures 17 July 2013]