Cheryl Fernandez-Versini confirms X Factor exit reports

Cheryl Fernandez-Versini has confirmed she has quit her role as a judge on The X Factor.

She issued a statement after reports claimed she had informed Simon Cowell of her decision not to take part in the new series over dinner in Hollywood last week.

The ex-Girls Aloud singer, who is currently making an album in Los Angeles, said she wants to concentrate on her music career.

Show boss Cowell issued his own statement supporting her decision.

Cowell had sacked Cheryl from the US version of The X Factor in 2011 before she returned to the UK version in 2014.

She had originally joined the talent show in 2008 and two of her acts went on to win the show - Alexandra Burke and Joe McElderry - before she left in 2010.

Simon Cowell is reportedly going to bring back some of the show's former favourites to replace the younger judging panel and presenters who replaced them. Credit: PA Wire

The 32-year-old's second departure continues the shake-up of the hit talent show's presenting and judging line-up, which looks to be returning to its origins for the new series according to reports.

It has been confirmed that Dermot O'Leary will be back to present after the departures of Olly Murs and Caroline Flack.

Louis Walsh is tipped to replace the outgoing Nick Grimshaw on the judging panel, while Sharon Osbourne is reportedly in talks to return.

A spokesperson for the show thanked Cheryl for her contribution.