Paula Abdul confirms X Factor exit

Los Angeles - Paula Abdul has confirmed she is leaving US X Factor.

The 49-year-old star - who has been axed along with fellow judge Nicole Scherzinger and host Steve Jones - said her time as a panellist on the programme has been a "blessing" and she will still remain "dear friends" with show boss Simon Cowell, despite hinting she would've liked to have stayed on the show.

She said in a statement: "Yes, it's true; I won't be returning to The X Factor next season. I've learned through my longevity in this industry that business decisions often times override personal considerations.

"Simon [Cowell] and I, along with Fox and [producers] Fremantle, have been communicating about this for a while now, and I have absolute understanding of the situation."

 A dear friend

''Simon is, and will remain a dear friend of mine and I've treasured my experience working this past season with my extended family at Fox and Fremantle. I want nothing more than for The X Factor to exceed ALL of their wildest dreams. This truly has been a blessing and I am most grateful."

A Fox spokesperson recently confirmed the departure of Nicole and Steve, who admitted he'd had a "great time" presenting the programme.

He wrote on Twitter: "I wont be hosting next seasons XFactor which is a shame but I cant complain as I've had a great time. Good luck to everyone on the show. (sic)"

Simon is said to be keen to "take the show in a different direction" with only LA Reid still guaranteed a place on the judging panel for next year as things stand. (C) BANG Media International