Cheryl Cole, the 26-year-old British pop singer, has been confirmed as a judge on Simon Cowell's U.S X Factor. Cheryl Cole will join Cowell, record producer La Reid and one unconfirmed judge on the new show, which begins filming on Friday (5th May 2011).
The news ends months of speculation as to Cole's potential involvement in the show, and attention now turns to whether the 27-year-old will continue working as a judge on the UK version of the hit talent contest. In a statement, Cheryl said, "I'm so excited to be taking part in the American version of The X Factor. I absolutely love it here in the UK and with the talent they have out in America, I'm sure we're going to find someone very special. I can't wait to get started". Cowell joked that the singer was "a complete brat", but added, "She is massively excited about this show. this girl can spot talent". The music mogul has been developing the U.S X Factor for several months now and has been notably absent from the judging panel on Itv's 'Britain's Got Talent'.
The identity of the final X Factor judge is yet to be revealed, with Katy Perry and Paula Abdul thought to be in contention. The winner of the show will receive a $5m recording contract with Cowell's Syco/Sony Music label.