Paula Abdul and Simon Cowell ... together again!
The two will serve as judges on Cowell's new singing competition "The X Factor," a source familiar with the show's negotiations tells The Associated Press. Rounding out the panel are record executive Antonio "L.A." Reid and British pop star Cheryl Cole.
The show begins taping this weekend and will debut in September on FOX. Unlike "American Idol," "X Factor" is open to any contestant over 12 years olds, as well as group acts. The judges will serve as mentors throughout the competition, with the winner walking away with a $5 million recording contract.
Despite their on-air sparring, Cowell has always been fond of Abdul. In an interview with Deadline's Nikki Finke, he gushed on and on about her:
"I've always wanted Paula. Always been very vocal about that. I missed her the second she left the show. Always loved working with her even though she can be a pain. And I've been consistent about this. I don't know what it is about her, but I've always clicked with her. You just have to get that chemistry, and she's right."
With "American Idol's" resurgence and the popularity of "The Voice," will viewers embrace yet another singing competition? Sound off in the comments below.
