Report: David Gest Lands X Factor Judging Spot  3/13/07

Music producer and reality TV star David Gest has been lined up to replace Irish music mogul Louis Walsh on British TV show The X Factor.

Gest - the estranged husband of Liza Minnelli - will reportedly join remaining judges Simon Cowell and Sharon Osbourne in their bid to unearth the UK's best undiscovered musical talent following Walsh's departure from the program last week (ends09MAR07).

A source tells British newspaper the Daily Mirror, "Talks are well under way and ITV chiefs think David is just what the show needs to give it a new kick.

It's just a case of sorting out money and scheduling.

"Simon Cowell wants someone who would bring some fresh humor to the show and David is such a character. He knows David will be someone who knows what he's talking about. He also wants someone with strong views and who isn't afraid to speak their mind and David's that man."

In January (07), ITV bosses announced plans for Gest's own show, following his success on reality show I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! in November (06). The David Gest Show will air later this year (07)