Louis Tomlinson has admitted that was a “cocky little s**t” when he auditioned for The X Factor.
The 26-year-old auditioned for the show back in 2010, and although he didn’t make it past bootcamp as a solo artist, he became one fifth of One Direction – who went on to become one of the most successful boybands ever.
Speaking to The Sun, Louis confessed, “When I first came into the band, or when I was 17 say, a year before the band, I was a cocky little s***.”
One Direction went on an extended hiatus in 2016, but the singer has since landed a role as a judge on The X Factor.
Speaking about his new role, Louis said, “I understand the enormity of the opportunity for these people. I was f*****g terrified, completely inexperienced going in front of a crowd of 3,000 people, so I really empathise with the contestants.”
Louis also opened up about his life being a father to two-year-old son Freddie Reign, and how it has made him more sensible.
The star feels “a real responsibility” as a father, but joked that he could still drink anyone under the table.
Louis will join Simon Cowell, Robbie Williams and Ayda Field on this year’s X Factor judging panel.
The new series begins tomorrow on Virgin Media One (formerly TV3).