Simon Cowell quits The X Factor

It’s been revealed that Simon Cowell will not be a ‘weekly judge’ on the next series of The X Factor but ITV is looking for ways to include him later on in the series following the auditions.

As Cowell prepares to launch the American version of The X Factor its been reported that he will not be a ‘weekly judge’ on the ITV version. ITV said it was “completely comfortable” with this and was looking for ways to include him later on in the next run of The X Factor. The American version of the talent contest is due to launch in September and Cowell will be one of the judges.

The UK media has debated extensively whether or not fellow UK judge Cheryl Cole will be part of the American version or not – nearly each day there are conflicting reports on the issue. If Cole were to sign on for the American version that would leave the UK version without two judges – ala Britain’s Got Talent following Cowell and Piers Morgan’s departure – and ITV would be hunting for new talent to join the panel. Media reports also claim though that the futures of Dannii Minogue and Louis Walsh on the panel are also in question – though once again there are conflicting reports on that issue too.

A number of high profile music names have been linked to roles on both the UK and American versions of The X Factor. It was reported that Sharon Osbourne would join the American version while recent reports suggest husband Ozzy could join the UK series. Other names linked to either/or series include Lily Allen, Gary Barlow, and Mariah Carey.