After months of rumours (some pretty close to the mark, others less so..) it seems that Simon Cowell is on the brink of confirming his full line-up for this yearâs American X Factor.
Cheryl Cole seems set to be unveiled as the third judge before the end of the week and Cowell has spoke of how the US X Factor deal was âalmost conditionalâ? on her taking the job. The music supremo said Fox bosses had “fallen in love” with Cheryl and predicted that she would be as popular in America as she has been in the UK over the last couple of years.
“This girl is special. She’s got a great ability to communicate,â? said Cowell without a hint of irony. âShe’s a great judge. She’s smart.â?
“It’s just a hunch. If people take to her like the British public did, I think she’s going to do really well in America. Fox were desperate to hire her,â? he added before explaining that he had first mooted the possibility of her coming stateside to American Idol execs two years ago.
Cowell also told reporters that Paula Abdul would be his choice to complete the line-up as he âgets on wellâ? with her. “It is like casting a dinner party,â? he added. âI’ve always wanted Paula – I’ve never found anyone better.”
Abdul and Cole will be joining Cowell and record label guru L.A Reid on the panel for this autumn. Cowell has already confirmed that despite a massive offer from ITV, he will not be appearing in the British version.
