Paula Abdul confirms US X Factor exit

Paula Abdul.

PAULA Abdul has confirmed she is leaving US 'X Factor'.

The 49-year-old star - who has been axed along with fellow judge Nicole Scherzinger and host Steve Jones - said her time as a panellist on the programme has been a "blessing" and she will still remain "dear friends" with show boss Simon Cowell, despite hinting she would've liked to have stayed on the show.

She said in a statement: "Yes, it's true; I won't be returning to The 'X Factor' next season. I've learned through my longevity in this industry that business decisions often times override personal considerations. Simon [Cowell] and I, along with Fox and [producers] Fremantle, have been communicating about this for a while now, and I have absolute understanding of the situation.

"Simon is, and will remain a dear friend of mine and I've treasured my experience working this past season with my extended family at Fox and Fremantle. I want nothing more than for The 'X Factor' to exceed ALL of their wildest dreams. This truly has been a blessing and I am most grateful."

A Fox spokesperson recently confirmed the departure of Nicole and Steve, who admitted he'd had a "great time" presenting the programme.

He wrote on twitter: "I wont be hosting next seasons XFactor which is a shame but I cant complain as I've had a great time. Good luck to everyone on the show. (sic)"

Simon is said to be keen to "take the show in a different direction" with only L.A Reid still guaranteed a place on the judging panel for next year as things stand.

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