X Factor host swaperoo

Channel 7's new talent show The X Factor will get a new host after Matthew Newton was "forced to quit". Newton allegedly assaulted his now ex-girlfriend Rachel Taylor at a hotel in Rome during a private holiday.

Newton is reportedly back in rehab at a private hospital in Melbourne and Taylor has apparantely sought an apprehended violence order against him.

Right: Taylor and Newton (Image from ABC)

Now The X Factor is scheduled to air on Monday without their original host. Late last night, Channel 7 announced that Home and Away actor Luke Jacobz will be the new host. According to Jacobz's bio, he hosted 7's talent show Popstars in 2000-01. Can you remember what was he like? Post your comments.

Above: Luke Jacobz (Image from Yahoo!7)

By the way, what does The X Factor's owner Simon Cowell think of all of this? Cowell quit being an American Idol judge to launch The X Factor in America after great success in the UK.

With the Australian version off to a shaky start, it will be interesting to see how Channel 7 deal with the pre-recorded episodes featuring Newton.

Left: Simon Cowell (Image from People.com)