Cheryl Cole Confirmed as Simon Cowell’s X-Factor

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Why did Simon Cowell quit American Idol only to launch an American version of his British reality singing competition, X-Factor? I have no idea, but I do have an idea of who will be sitting on the judging panel.

Today’s news comes a little less than a month after rumors spread that Paula Abdul could appear on American X-Factor in some capacity to facilitate a lil’ television reunion for the former Idol judge and Cowell. EW.com reports there’s nothing in ink for Abdul yet, but Cheryl Cole is another story.

The British pop singer has signed to be one of the judges on Cowell’s new show. She previously judged on Britain’s X-Factor for a number of seasons.

Cowell said in a release from the Fox network, “I’m thrilled for Cheryl. She is massively excited about this show, and has been fantastic to work with. She is also a complete brat! Most importantly, this girl can spot talent.”

In a release of her own, Cole quipped, “I just can’t decide whether I am more excited to find and nurture the talent or for the unbelievable amount of amusement and entertainment I will have watching Simon doing everything and anything he can to beat me. He’s tried to beat me for three years in the U.K., and hasn’t even come close. His ego must be so bruised. America is gonna love this.”

If you aren’t familiar with X-Factor, it differs from Idol in that judges don’t just judge idly, they also mentor contestants. In that regard it seems like The Voice is similar to X-Factor.