Gary Barlow is quitting X Factor – paving the way for a dramatic return by show supremo Simon Cowell.
After a series of on and off-air spats, the Take That star has privately agreed with ITV1 that he will not return for a third series.
He will see out the current contest but plans to spend more time with his family as well as focussing on his band commitments.
Stung by dwindling ratings, Cowell, 51, is said to be lining himself up for a widely hyped comeback as the show's Judge Dread.
A source said: "It's time for a shake-up. While Gary has never committed to another series, he was willing to listen to offers if this one went well.
"However, he was given the least desirable category – the Overs – and three of his four acts have already been eliminated.
"He feels his integrity has been compromised and the show has lost its credibility.
"By mutual consent, he will not be returning next year."
The news comes after it emerged in Cowell's biography that the music mogul was not impressed with his replacement's performance.
In the book, which was written with his blessing, Cowell was said to be livid that ITV had re-signed the singer – and his claims reportedly led to the pair having a major fall-out.
There have also been claims that some of Gary's lines on the show were scripted by comedy writer Ben Winston – a close friend and colleague of TV comic actor James Corden.
On air, Gary has frequently clashed with his fellow judges. He regularly disagrees with Louis Walsh and recently had a major bust-up with Tulisa Contostavlos after accusing her of having "fag ash breath".
Insiders say his decision to leave means Cowell is almost certain to resume his position as head of the judging panel.
Despite being tied to the US version of the show, he is believed to be negotiating a new arrangement which would enable him take part in both – just like the Stateside appearances of Strictly Come Dancing judges Len Goodman and Bruno Tonioli.
After filming in the UK on Saturday and Sunday, Cowell would fly back to LA on Mondays and return to London on a private jet on a Thursday.
But an X Factor spokesman insisted yesterday: "We are currently focused on this series. No one is even thinking or talking about next year and who may or may not be on the panel."
Gary was honoured last night with a Music Industry Trust award for services to British music and his charity work.
He was presented with his gong by Sir Elton John at London's Grosvenor House hotel.
Photos from the National Music Trust Award bash
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