Britney Spears, Demi Lovato to be ‘X Factor’ judges

It’s official: Britney Spears and Demi Lovato will be judges when the second season of the U.S. edition of “The X Factor” debuts this fall.

“I’m a huge fan of the show and now I get to be a part of the action,” Spears said during Fox’s upfront presentations to advertisers in New York City.

While details of the two stars’ new contracts weren’t revealed, reports over the last few weeks suggested Spears would be signing a $15-million deal.

Spears and Lovato will sit alongside Simon Cowell, the show’s creator, and music executive L.A. Reid. The two pop stars replace former judges Paula Abdul and Nicole Scherzinger, who, along with host Steve Jones, were fired by Cowell following the conclusion of the singing competition’s first season.

“I’m absolutely delighted Britney and Demi are joining us,” Cowell said. “Britney remains one of the biggest stars in the world; she’s talented, fascinating — and I believe she knows exactly how to spot ‘The X Factor.’

“Demi’s had an amazing career in music, TV and film for someone her age. She’s young, confident and enthusiastic,” the outspoken TV personality said. “I think it’s really important that she speaks to our younger audience.”

Solo artists and vocal groups who are 12 years old or over can sign up for auditions now at www.fox.com/theXfactor . A $5-million recording contract with Syco/Sony Music is on the line.

(Freep.com)