Simon Cowell’s ‘X Factor’ UK return means the US version has been cancelled.
The media mogul confirmed yesterday (07.02.14) he will make his judging comeback after a three-year break, but the American show won’t continue without him at the helm.
In a statement to MTV News, he said: "I’ve had a fantastic time over the last 12 years, both on ‘The X Factor’ and ‘ American Idol’. And apart from being lucky enough to find some amazing talent on the shows, I have always had an incredible welcome from the American public (most of the time!).
"Last year, for a number of reasons, I had to make a decision to return to the UK version of ‘The X Factor’ in 2014. So for now, I’m back to the UK and I want to thank Fox for being an incredible partner and I also want to thank everybody who has supported my shows. America, I’ll see you soon!"
In the statement, Fox entertainment chairman Kevin Reilly added the show was nothing "without Simon".
He continued: "To all of us at Fox, Simon is more than one of the most prolific TV personalities of our time – he’s part of our family.
"A consummate showman and partner, there’s no one more passionate or creative than Simon, and we feel so fortunate to have enjoyed such a wonderful, collaborative relationship with him over the past 12 years.
"Unfortunately, there is no ‘X Factor USA’ without Simon Cowell, but we understand and support his decision to focus on the international formats and on the next phase of his personal life. We wish him the very best, and it’s our sincere hope that we work together again soon."