Nicole Scherzinger confirmed as X Factor judge

It's finally been made official: Nicole Scherzinger will replace ex-Destiny's Child singer Kelly Rowland on The X Factor judging panel.

In an official statement, Nicole says: "I'm so excited to join the UK X Factor family. It's where I got my start, so it feels great to come full circle. I can't wait to see what talent the UK has to offer and to help inspire and bring out the best in these artists."

Peter Fincham, Director of Television, ITV, says: "Nicole will bring her wealth of experience, both as a solo artist, and as a member of a group, to this year's Judging panel. We're delighted that she'll be joining us for the forthcoming series."

Nicole's first X Factor UK stint came in 2010; she replaced Cheryl Cole when the Call My Name singer was struck down with malaria.

The positive reviews probably convinced Simon Cowell to plump for her when he took X Factor to America's Fox TV network. She started out as a presenter on the US version before replacing Cheryl Cole, yet again, when the Brit was infamously dumped in 2011.

Nicole in turn was dropped from X Factor USA earlier this year. But we're glad she's signed up to star in the UK version. We can't wait to see her, Tulisa Contostavlos, Gary Barlow and Louis Walsh working their magic.

Bring it on!