The start of this year's X Factor auditions have been postponed following the death of Simon Cowell's mother.

89-year old Julie passed away on Sunday (July 5) - the day before the first audition was due to be filmed.

A spokesperson for the family confirmed: "Today our beloved mum Julie passed away.

"Anyone who had met her would know what a truly special and kind lady she was. We are heartbroken and will miss her terribly, but she is now at peace."

A rep for Syco said that X Factor auditions due to be held in Manchester have been postponed - with more disruption to the schedule on the cards.

They said: "[Auditions] were due to start today and carry on into Tuesday and Wednesday.

"Today’s have been cancelled and we have not made any decisions beyond that."

This year's series sees the addition of Rita Ora and Nick Grimshaw to the panel.

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Watch Simon Cowell being interviewed below: