Toya Delazy replaces Zonke behind The X Factor SA judges' table after unexpected death of her sister Lulu Dinkana.

Toya Delazy is replacing The X Factor SA judge Zonke on the SABC1 show produced by Rapid Blue this Saturday night after the untimely death of her sister Lulu Dinkana.

Lulu Dikana died last night following a short illness in hospital; the cause of death is still unknown.

Lulu Dikana's death comes just a year after the family lost their older sister Busisiwe in May last year.

Now Toya Delazy is stepping in and will also perform on Saturday's penultimate episode of the format competition show.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Zonke and her family during this difficult time. She has been a wonderful mentor to her acts and I will do my best to fill her shoes and provide support," says Toya Delazy in a statement.

Toya Delazy will join Arno Carstens and Oskido behind the judges' desk.

"The SABC and The X Factor SA send all our prayers to Zonke and her family. We thank Toya for agreeing to step in and join the judging panel," says Zandile Nkonyeni, SABC TV head publicist in a statement.