Abdul, Scherzinger, Jones Fired From THE X FACTOR

THE X FACTOR has finally confirmed the news that has been rumored for months, host Steve Jones and judge Nicole Scherzinger will not be returning to the show when it returns for its second season. A spokesman for the Fox network has confirmed the news to the Associated Press but has refused to reveal any further details. In recent interviews, executives for the show had commented that season two would see 'big changes'. 

In other X FACTOR news, EWonline has confirmed that judge Paula Abdul will also not be returning to the show, leaving Simon Cowell and L.A. Reid as the only two original members of the judging panel for the upcoming season. Rumors of Abdul's future with the show have also circulated in recent weeks, but have not been as widespread as those regarding Scherzinger and Jones. Abdul has a long-time friendship with fellow judge and executive producer Simon Cowell, dating back to their first season of judging duties on Fox's American Idol. 

Jones broke the news that he would not be returning to the show on his Twitter account yesterday, commenting, “I won’t be hosting next seasons X Factor which is a shame but I cant complain as I’ve had a great time. Good luck to everyone on the show.” At a press tour earlier this month, Fox entertainment president Kevin Reilly gave strong clues that Jones would not be a presence on next season's show. “There will be some changes … as we know [hosting] is a much harder job than meets the eye,” said Reilly. “I think everybody has come to see the value of Ryan Seacrest. Whether Steve is the guy or not, it comes under the heading of growth in general.”

Fox has given no details as to who will be replacing the exiting stars. Reps for Paula Abdul also declined to comment.