Michael McIntyre quits as Britain's Got Talent judge

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20 September 2011

Michael McIntyre has quit as a judge on ITV1's Britain's Got Talent in order to concentrate on touring.

An ITV spokesman said: "We wish him the best and look forward to working with him again."

The 35-year-old stand-up comedian is leaving almost a year after joining the show, following the departure of Piers Morgan and Simon Cowell.

A replacement for McIntyre has yet to be confirmed, although the show is expecting to return in the new year.

'Amazing' experience

A statement from Simon Cowell regarding McIntyre's decision to leave said: "It's been amazing working with Michael - I don't need to wish him any luck with the tour because it's already gigantic!"

McIntyre has already announced details of an extensive UK tour next year - he'll tour from August until December beginning in Cardiff.

David Hasselhoff's role on Britain's Got Talent has recently been the subject of speculation, although ITV say no decision has been made about his future.

Amanda Holden is pregnant, which could potentially limit her availability.

However, writing on Twitter, the actress responded to a comment by one user suggesting she may not be part of the 2012 series by saying: "I am going no where."

Back in June Scottish singer Jai McDowall was crowned the surprise winner of this year's series, beating favourite Ronan Parke.

An average of 12.5m viewers saw the 24-year-old from Ayrshire win the £100,000 prize and the opportunity to perform at this year's Royal Variety Performance.