X Factor Auditions Cancelled Simon Cowell's Mother Dies

Simon Cowell's mother Julie Cowell died on Sunday at the age of 89.
Auditions for the talent show were due to begin in Manchester today but will now no longer go ahead, a spokesman for Syco Entertainment confirmed.

He said: "They were due to start today and carry on into Tuesday and Wednesday. Today's have been cancelled and we have not made any decisions beyond that."

The first try-outs for the new-look show were expected to be attended by Cowell and fellow judges Rita Ora, Nick Grimshaw and Cheryl Fernandez-Versini, as well as new presenters Olly Murs and Caroline Flack.

Announcing Mrs Cowell's death, the family said it was heartbroken and would "miss her terribly".

"Today our beloved mum Julie passed away. Anyone who had met her would know what a truly special and kind lady she was. We are heartbroken and will miss her terribly, but she is now at peace," a statement said. 

Mrs Cowell was the mother of four boys - Nicholas, Simon, Tony and Michael, and step-mother to John and June. 

A spokesman for the family added: "We would like to thank the media for kindly respecting Julie's privacy throughout and we politely request continued privacy for the entire family at this particularly difficult time." 

Cowell has received support from friends such as Sinitta who tweeted: "Dearest beloved friend died today, so lost without her, but the finest, happiest memories and lessons remain of my Beautiful Mother-Look."