Simon Cowell Accidentally Reveals Cheryl Cole as ‘Star on US X Factor’

Music mogul Simon Cowell dropped himself in it recently as he gave his biggest hint yet that Cheryl Cole will be a major part of the judging panel on the US X Factor series.

Cheryl Cole has long been tipped as judge on the American version of The X Factor when it hits screens later this year. But as Cowell mulled over his judging panel shortlist, he hinted that Mariah Carey’s ex-husband Tommy Mottola and American Idol co-star Paula Abdul would also join the judging team.

Cowell admitted he’s already thinking about the judging candidates, saying: “I think she would be great over here – Cheryl Cole’s a star.” And he commented on the other potential judges, saying “It’s pointless hiring judges who don’t know anything about the music business.“

“I’ll probably go and find someone who did what I did for a living. I was an A&R guy for 20 years. I thought Tommy Mottola would be a good choice. He was the guy who was the head of Sony – he guided Mariah – very flamboyant, knows what he’s talking about.“

Simon also revealed that he’s hoping to sign up Paula Abdul, saying: “I’ve been talking to Paula for a long time. It was always my intention in one way or another to carry on working with her.” Meanwhile news has leaked that Cowell turned down a massive $100 million offer to remain with American Idol.”

Refusing to comment on the exact amount of money involved, Mr Cowell admitted the figure was “a lot.” He also said: “It’s a weight off my mind just to tell everybody.“

So are we about to see our very own Cheryl Cole head stateside for four months at a time while she works on the American X Factor? And are the rumours that Cheryl has signed up to the German X Factor true? Only time will tell I guess.