It's after midnight here in Los Angeles and news is still coming in concerning next year's second season of Fox's well-performing reality show 'The X-Factor'.
Earlier today it was announced that both host Steve Jones and judge Nicole Scherzinger were leaving the show after one season. Though both departures had been speculated since the season finale, there was still a small possibility that both would remain for another installment.
Jones took to his twitter with "I won't be hosting next seasons X Factor which is a shame but I cant complain as I've had a great time." He hasn't stated whether the departure was his decision of not, though it was likely a producer's option to not renew his contract.
A few months ago it seemed that Jones' days were limited. Especially when Fox entertainment president Kevin Reilly was quotes as saying, "there will be some changes "¦ as we know [hosting] is a much harder job than meets the eye." He went on to explain, "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." Come on, who can't decode that message.
As for Scherzinger, her reps are reporting that her departure was her own decision, stating that the show took more time out of her schedule than she originally realized, leaving her little to no time to work on her own music career.
Both Jones and Scherzinger were panned heavily during the entire first season by critics and viewers alike. However, no one expected a third departure, that of Paula Abdul.
When Abdul was brought on prior to the first season, executive producer and fellow judge Simon Cowell spoke high praises for the former pop-icon. Her chemistry with Cowell was undeniable as she brought a little star-power to the judging panel - before Scherzinger came on board after a few city auditions. So her departure is incredible shocking.
Personally I blame the huge success of NBC's 'The Voice' and their young, fresh mentoring panel. Also, Cowell and Fox were expecting enormous numbers for the new show, offering up a $5 million record deal, 5x more than the winner of 'American Idol' receives. But the show averages a mere 12.6 million viewers. A strong outing for a brand new show, but still below studio expectations.
So who will replace the parting judges? Only time will tell. For now Cowell and record producer LA Reid will be returing next season. As for the rest, it is anybody's guess.
