Robbie Williams’ wife Ayda has joked she’s the “brains” behind his phenomenally successful career.
The actress and Loose Women panellist said her work behind the scenes with Robbie means she is uniquely qualified to be an X Factor judge on the new series.
She’ll serve on the judging panel alongside Robbie, One Direction’s Louis Tomlinson and X Factor boss Simon Cowell.
When Ayda, 39, was announced as a judge, some people questioned her qualifications for the role as she’s not a popstar or music manager herself.
Read more: X Factor confirms date and time new series will start on ITV
But she’s now said: “I know that I’ve helped Rob for 12 years now, I’ve had to pick him up off the ground and lift him up. I’ve been part of every song choice for like five albums, every creative for his live shows, his tours, music videos.
“I feel like I’ve had enough experience with his career and my own career to make a difference with these contestants.”
She joked: “I don’t want to say I’m the brains, but… I am the brains! I think I have very strong instincts and Rob trusts those instincts. I’m very passionate.
“With Rob, I think I’m also not afraid to tell him when I don’t like something. He’s in a position where a lot of people could tell him they like something even if they don’t. I am always incredibly straight forward, I say it with compassion but I stick to my word and carry it through.”
This year will mark the first time a husband and wife have judged together on X Factor.
And Robbie is thrilled to be working with his other half!
“I got together with Ayda 12 years ago, I was having a hiatus from the music industry. I didn’t do anything for three years and I loved it,” he said.
“I realised that I just wanted to spend time with my best mate. If I go to work, ultimately I go to work so I can come home and relax with my best friend. If I can go to work with my best friend, then that’s the best of both worlds.”
He added fans will get an “interesting” insight into the Williams’ marriage.
“I know what my wife is capable of. I know what we’re capable of together so we’ve just been waiting for the right vehicle to go, ‘Check out the Williams!'” he said.
Read more: Robbie Williams recalls romantic marriage proposal to Ayda Field
“I think it will be interesting for people to see us together in that way.”
We can’t wait!
X Factor returns to ITV from Saturday, September 1 at 8pm.
Are you looking forward to the new series of X Factor? Leave us a comment on our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix and let us know what you think!