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Gary Barlow replacing Simon Cowell as judge on new game show Walk The Line

Gary Barlow has replaced Simon Cowell as a judge on the upcoming game show Walk The Line.

Earlier this year, The X Factor creator and judge announced the launch of the new ITV programme, in which musical variety acts will be given the choice each week to cash out and leave or stay in the competition and play for potentially more money.

Simon was originally set to lead the judging panel for the six-part series, but he has now been replaced by the Take That star, as the music mogul has decided to scale back his onscreen work and just focus on his behind-the-scenes commitment as an executive producer.

"This is a situation where I have decided it is right for me to focus on my role as the creator and producer as we build up to the hugely exciting launch," he said in a statement, reports The Sun. "Gary's musical pedigree is second to none - and we have known each other a long time now - so I am delighted he is picking up the baton for me for the first series of Walk The Line. I know he will do a fantastic job."

Walk The Line was due to mark the 62-year-old's return to U.K. TV for the first time since breaking his back in an electric bike accident in August 2020.

This isn't the first time Gary has replaced Simon on a judging panel - he previously filled his spot on The X Factor when Simon took a break from the show between 2011 and 2014.

"When Simon calls it's usually with something fairly extraordinary," the singer added. "I'm so excited to be involved in a brand-new TV show, and of course my favourite part of Walk The Line is discovering new talent."

Walk The Line will be hosted by Maya Jama, while rumoured judges include Craig David and Mabel.