Paula Abdul, Nicole Scherzinger, Steve Jones Confirmed For ‘The X Factor’

Robbie Daw | May 9, 2011 8:36 am

Simon Cowell, who recently said he “always wanted” Paula Abdul for a judge on the upcoming American version of The X Factor, finally got his wish. Entertainment Weekly reported over the weekend that Paula will round out the singing competition series’ four judges, which include Cowell, Cheryl Cole and Antonio “L.A.” Reid. And now signed up to share host duties: “Right There” songstress Nicole Scherzinger and UK TV presenter Steve Jones. “This show would never have been the same without Paula and I can’t believe I am saying this — I have missed her a lot, and I am thrilled she’s on the show,” Simon Cowell noted in a statement.

Abdul, Simon’s former American Idol partner in judging crime, added that she’s “excited beyond words to be a part of The X Factor.” She also said, “I couldn’t be happier to bring my love for cultivating talent and performance to such a wildly anticipated show. I’m also delighted and grateful to be sitting next to Simon again…but you might want to check back with me in a week or two!”

FYI, it apparently didn’t even take that long. “Simon & I got over the honeymoon period very quickly! Back to our good old relationship! :)” Paula tweeted last night.

Meanwhile, most Americans might be curious about 34-year-old Welshman and model-turned-presenter Steve Jones. BBC News posted a profile of him upon word of his getting the X Factor gig that, among other things, paints him as quite a ladies’ man. (On his dance card, apparently: Pamela Anderson and Halle Berry).

But, ahem — getting back to the real business at hand: “The ability to work day in and day out with Simon Cowell is a dream come true,” Jones said in a statement. “I have been approached about working in the States before, but never felt right about those opportunities, but when The X Factor came up, I leapt at the opportunity.”

So there you have it — the X Factor roster of hosts and judges is finally complete. Will you be tuning in this fall, given Simon and Paul will be reunited for your viewing pleasure? Let us know below!