“The X Factor” will be replacing at least as many judges this year as it did last year. According to TMZ, Britney Spears decided against returning to the show.
According to the gossip site’s unimpeachable sources, “Britney loves Simon, she likes Demi Lovato but her thing is music.”
Spears’ decision to depart comes despite praise from FOX Entertainment President Kevin Reilly, who told reports at the TCA tour that Spears did a “really good job.”
While TMZ is adamant that the pop icon made the call, sources close to the show have greatly questioned whether “X Factor” legitimately intended to book her for season three, especially at the lofty payrate she commanded in the second season. The heavily-touted introduction of Spears did nothing to move ratings for the series, and her judging came under fire for being too distant and simplified (and not at all “crazy” enough to generate buzz).
Reports previously confirmed that Antonio “LA” Reid will leave the show, which means the only potential holdover judges are Simon Cowell and Demi Lovato; Cowell is the only certainty for season three.
