The former Neighbours actor is among the 14 celebrities taking part in the BBC competition. Speaking to The Sun, the X Factor judge said that he is a fan of the series.
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"I love Strictly and my best friend is in it - Jason Donovan - so I want him to do really well," Barlow told the paper, adding that he believes "a different type of person watches Strictly" compared to The X Factor.
Donovan also named the Take That star a "big fan" of the programme: "I think he's always fancied himself in sequins doing the rumba or cha cha cha."
The 43-year-old added: "I'm sure he'll be monitoring my progress and avoiding telling me the truth at all costs!"
BBC One controller Danny Cohen recently said that Strictly Come Dancing will avoid schedule clashes with The X Factor over the coming months.
Strictly Come Dancing launches on Saturday at 6.10pm on BBC One, while The X Factor continues at 8.15pm on ITV1.
> Gary Barlow texts 'bitter' 'X Factor' ratings to Simon Cowell
> Jason Donovan: 'EastEnders role would be fun'
