Here at The X Factor HQ, we’re already hopelessly excited about the legendary Gary Barlow’s new appointment as judge.

An early starter, it all began on Gary's tenth birthday with his parents bought him a keyboard instead of a BMX. A few years later, he'd progressed to performing at local clubs and penning ditties, and at 18 he met with manager Nigel Martin-Smith to discuss an 'idea for a band.' The rest as they say, is history.

It’s difficult to talk about Take That’s lead vocalist and resident hottie without making mention of his record-breaking achievements. To date, with Take That, he has bagged a mind-blowing eleven #1 singles and seven #1 albums. The success doesn't stop there - as a solo artist, he has clocked  two #1 singles and a #1 album.

Not to mention the countless awards that include five Ivor Novello Awards for songwriting. Blimey! Where on earth does Gary find the space to store all that silverware, we wonder?

At the auditions, Gary most definitely bought the se-X-y ‘factor’ with him as hoards of screaming girls AND women were clambering over themselves to be photographed with Pop’s Mr. Handsome. Poor Gary must’ve been exhausted but ever the gentleman; he graciously posed with fans and took time out to thank them for coming. Whatta guy!

One question still remains though - will the star slip into Simon Cowell’s shoes now he’s no longer here as the tough talking judge?