The X Factor 2016: Emma Willis becomes favourite to replace Olly Murs and Caroline Flack

Jennifer Ruby22 February 2016
The Weekender

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Emma Willis has become the bookies' favourite to replace Olly Murs and Caroline Flack as host of The X Factor.

The Big Brother host has been tipped to step in after the presenting duo confirmed that they wouldn’t be returning this year.

William Hill has slashed odds on her becoming the new host to 1/2 , while Ladbrokes have her at 8/1.

“Emma Willis has done a top job on Big Brother and we thing she has a great chance of getting the X Factor role,” said William Hill spokesman Rupert Adams.

Presenting duo: Caroline Flack and Olly Murs have left The X Factor
Stuart C. Wilson/Getty

Odds on Dermot O’Leary making a return to the show have been slashed to 3/1, while other stars reportedly in the running include Fearne Cotton and Laura Whitmore.

After a rocky stint on the show last year, both Flack and Murs have now confirmed that they have stepped down.

X Factor Judges 2015

1/11

Murs said in a statement: “This was an incredibly hard decision to make and one I didn’t take lightly as I’ve really enjoyed co-hosting The X Factor.

“It’s been one big adventure and I loved every minute of it. But my heart belongs to music and I want to concentrate 100 per cent on making my next album and getting back to performing.”

Just hours after his statement, Flack released one of her own, announcing that she was leaving the show but would continue to work for ITV.

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