Actor David Gest reportedly is in negotiations to be a judge on the British talent show "The X Factor," replacing Louis Walsh who was fired.

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Executives at ITV said they hope the "I'm a Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here" star can boost interest and raise sagging ratings in the talent project of Simon Cowell, the Mirror said Tuesday.

"X-Factor" co-host Kate Thornton also was fired.

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Reports indicate talks between Gest and ITV "are well under way," the Mirror said.

It is hoped Gest will join Cowell, celebrity judge Sharon Osbourne and another still-to-be-named panelist for this summer's new series of the show.