Rumours have been circulating this week that the ‘Price Tag’ singer may lose her job after reportedly infuriating producers with her demanding behaviour and public criticisms of the series, but Willoughby told the Daily Star that the claims are untrue:

“Jessie’s not leaving the show. But I would be gutted if she left – she’s my favourite judge.

“I have a soft spot for all of them but I would choose to be in Jessie’s category. I’m a bit obsessed. I hold her responsible for being the gel that holds the panel together so well. She doesn’t give the other mentors any option but to have fun. 

“She forced the others to raise their game to match hers during the early stages and now they all have great chemistry together.”

The 31-year-old, who co-hosts the BBC show alongside Reggie Yates, also defended the BRIT Award winner over accusations she’s become a diva backstage:

“I think it’s unfair for people to say ‘There’s a strong woman, she’s a bit of a nightmare.' She’s actually not, she’s just ­dedicated and passionate.

“I’m naturally drawn to women like that because it’s really tough for women to break through in this industry and she has.”