Kelly Rowland + Paulina Rubio Are the New ‘X Factor’ Judges
The saga of who will judge the next season of 'X Factor' is finally over, with former Destiny's Child Kelly Rowland and Mexican singer/actress Paulina Rubio filling the open slots left by the departing Britney Spears and L.A. Reid.
Said judge and creator Simon Cowell of the almost all-girl panel:
“It’s taken more than a decade but I’m delighted to finally be on a panel with three girls (I think!). Paulina and Kelly both have great taste and massive experience in the music industry and together with Demi, this is going to be a fun panel. It just feels like the time to do something different.”
Rowland has experience, having previously judged on the eighth season of the original U.K. version of the reality show. “I am very excited to be reuniting with Simon Cowell," she said of the opportunity. "It feels great to be able to take this journey here at home in the States!"
"Simon, be careful what you wish for, let’s see if you are ready to handle me, empieza la fiesta, amigo!” Rubio passed along in a statement to her new boss (the bit of Spanish roughly translates to "start the party, friend").
Also set to return is host Mario Lopez, who will work solo once again now that Khloe Kardashian and her awkwardness have been given the axe.