Nooo!!!
Cheryl Fernandez Versini has QUIT the X-Factor.
Just when we thought the return of Dermot O’Leary (read more here) meant our dream X-Factor team were back together, Cheryl announces she is leaving the show to focus on her pop career.
The 32-year-old said in a statement:
“I have had such an amazing experience being a judge on The X Factor. I have learnt so much and enjoyed nurturing talent but I’ve missed making music and am excited to be recording again.’I want to thank everybody I have worked with along the way, especially Simon who I love to bits. I hope the show continues to produce stars and I wish them all the best.”
Cheryl’s departure comes amid rumours that Louis Walsh and Sharon Osbourne will be returning to the show. So far however the only confirmed member of the judging panel is head honcho Simon.
Speaking about Cheryl’s departure, Simon said,
“Cheryl and myself spoke about this. I totally understand her commitment to making more records. She has been amazing on the show, and in the near future we will be working on other things together.”
Cheryl’s exit is the latest in a number of significant changes to hit the X-Factor line-up. DJ Nick Grimshaw stepped down from his judging role last February. Presenter Olly Murs also left the show after his co-host Caroline Flack was axed.
The focus has now turned to Cheryl’s replacement with rumours rife that Nicole Scherzinger wants to return.
Given the massive slump in the show’s ratings however, it’s quite likely that Simon will opt to have the sassy-talking Sharon Osbourne on the panel should her BFF Louis Walsh also agree to return.
