Louis Tomlinson is back to the "X-Factor" five years after he first gained nationwide popularity when he joined the show as a contestant. But this time the One Direction star has joined the show as a house judge to assist Simon Cowell narrow down the remaining six hopefuls to three.  

Tomlinson was spotted with Cowell filming for the "X-Factor" ahead of the live shows at the old castle of Chateau de Candes in Candes-Saint-Martin, France. In one photo shared by Mirror UK, the father-to-be is seen standing on the steps of the huge property to welcome the six remaining contestants.

Another picture shows Tomlinson and Cowell inside the chateau poring over photos of the contestants. The pair seems to be having a serious conversation about their choices as they go over the photos of each six hopefuls. The "X-Factor" mogul seemed at a loss in another photo. Cowell looked as if he's having trouble picking out the final three who will make it to the live shows.

It was previously reported that Tomlinson would be a good addition to the show since he could help with the show's ratings. But former "X-Factor" judge Louis Walsh had expressed his reservations about the 23-year old's abilities to draw in more viewers during a previous interview with the Daily Star.

"He's the least popular member of One Direction, so I'm not sure," he said.

However, Cowell reportedly has high hopes for Tomlinson to help the "X-Factor" achieve huge success. A source told The Sun that the 56-year old thinks of the One Direction singer as someone who is not afraid to speak his mind, which would be a great asset to the show.

"One Direction have always been big ratings winners and Louis is the most outspoken of the band. He won't be afraid to tell people if they're terrible, which Simon loves," the source said.

Tomlinson also plans to stick around judging the "X-Factor." The 23-year is confident that he would make a decent judge and told The Sun's Dan Wootton on Tuesday about his intentions.

"I've handed my CV to Simon for next year's show, so we will see how it goes. It's definitely something I am thinking about. I am the biggest X Factor fan and I would love to be there week in, week out and really give that level of passion," Tomlinson said during an exclusive interview with Wootton.