Will.i.am has surprisinglyleft Cheryl Fernandez-Versini hanging after pulling out of The X Factor's judges' houses, because he's 'too busy'.

Seeing as chilling out in the South of France with Chezza's super hot hubby Jean-Bernard is not top of Will's to-do-list, the one and only Tinie Tempah has gallantly stepped in to help.

Will's scheduling clashes have meant the Brit rapper will be advising his Crazy Stupid Love co-singer in whittling down her contestants to her top three to take to the live shows.

The big bosses of the show have played down the idea that Black Eyed Peas member has let her down, saying Tinie was always an option considering Will's busy schedule.

The pair are said to be filming the judges' houses round in a villa in Nice (which overlooks the sea) today.