Cheryl Cole confirmed as US X Factor judge

Simon Cowell has ended months of speculation by confirming that Cheryl Cole will join him as a judge on the US version of The X Factor.

The Girls Aloud singer will join record producer Antonio "LA" Reid and one other as yet unconfirmed judge on the Fox TV show, which will begin filming on Friday.

The announcement is likely to spark a whole new round of speculation over whether Cole will continue as a judge on the ITV1 version of the show. The UK show, which she joined three years ago, will return later this year.

"I'm thrilled for Cheryl. She is massively excited about this show, and has been fantastic to work with," said Cowell. "She is also a complete brat. Most importantly, this girl can spot talent."

Cole added: "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 quit his role as a judge on Fox's other talent show, the Simon Fuller-produced American Idol, to launch The X Factor in the US.

Cowell's US commitments mean he will not appear on ITV1's Britain's Got Talent until its final week, and it remains to be seen what, if any, role he has in the final stages of The X Factor in the UK later this year.

The Fox president of alternative entertainment, Mike Darnell, said: "Cheryl Cole has the whole X Factor package: She's an incredibly talented artist and performer, as well as a style icon, and she has that special charisma that draws in fans around the world."

"Cheryl's charm and chemistry with Simon have been a key part of the overwhelming success of The X Factor in the UK, and we can't wait to welcome her to the US on our air."

But it remains to be seen how American viewers take to Cole's Geordie accent.

The winner of the US X Factor will win a $5m recording contract with Cowell's Syco/Sony Music. The show will be produced by Cowell's Syco Television and FremantleMedia North America.

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