First it was host Steve Jones who was shown the door, and now reports have confirmed that he will be followed by judges Paula Abdul and Nicole Scherzinger who have also been axed from the next series of The x factor USA.

Paula confessed in a statement that while it was not her choice to go, she does understand ‘that business decisions often times override personal considerations’ and insists that she and Simon Cowell are still close pals, adding:

‘Simon is, and will remain a dear friend of mine and I’ve treasured my experience working on The X Factor USA.’

Nicole Scherzinger had previously been keeping quiet about rumours that she had also finished on The X Factor, however today her spokesperson also confirmed the reports and issued a statement, which read:

”Nicole is leaving The X Factor USA to work on her music. Nicole spoke to Simon Cowell and he has given her his blessing.”

She later tweeted:

“Looking forward to an exciting year ahead and making great music and more! I’m grateful for the love you always give me.”

Simon Cowell seems upset over the decision and particularly over the departure of his buddy Paula.Abdul He said:

”Paula in particular, is a very close friend and I expect to be working with her on another project in the near future.”