Pop Idol: meet the judges

What's it like to be working with your fellow judges again?
It's good, yes. It worked the first time, and it's certainly the same now. It's not just the judges, it's the crew and Ant and Dec. It's a team, and like any good team it works. And when it works it's great to be back.

Any arguments so far?
Not any more than usual with Simon. You don't have an argument with Simon. He has an opinion and it's not the same as yours. I don't know whether that constitutes an argument. It's been 30 years and I've never known him any different.

Are any songs emerging as popular ones this year?
There are some unusual popular songs this year. For some unknown reason and it might be down to American Idol, but Lionel Ritchie has become a popular one. Why people sing Lionel Ritchie baffles me.

Which regional audition have you enjoyed most?
Glasgow. I thought it was great, Glasgow was fun. I had 14 gin and tonics so I didn't remember much the next day. We were all in a good mood in Glasgow. We bounced, and I think when you bounce it works.

What's the difference between this year and last year talent wise?
I think the talent is definitely better this year. There's a much higher standard although some days were more exciting than others.

Have you spotted anyone who could be the 'Idol' yet?
There's been a couple of really outstanding ones, people who've walked through the door and you can just tell, they've got it, they're a natural star. There was a lad yesterday (Manchester audition) he had no idea who the song was by or why he'd chosen it but he was a real natural, but I guess we'll have to wait and see.

You've all been away working on other projects and come back with new experiences. Do you think it may be different this time around?
No, I hope not. When you've been on the most successful TV show you want it to be exactly the same. It wasn't scripted or written. And there's enough real life incidents in this show to not worry that someone's going to do something bloody stupid! I think they should film the rehearsals because some of the best parts people never saw.

Catch Pop Idol on Saturday evenings on ITV1 and ITV2.