Simon Cowell has reportedly decided he wants a female-dominated judging panel for The X Factor US.
The music mogul is currently trying to secure two new stars to join the third season of the talent show, after the departure of Britney Spears and L.A. Reid. Simon is apparently keen to be surrounded by female music stars and wants to add Kelly Rowland and Paulina Rubio to the line-up – which currently consists of him and Demi Lovato.
“A female centric panel is something new to the show, but both the producers and Simon really think it’s the right way to go,” a source told RadarOnline.com. “The producers and FOX have decided on their dream panel and they’re in the very final stages of negotiations as the auditions start in just a few weeks.”
Destiny’s Child singer Kelly previously appeared on the judging panel for the UK version of The X Factor, and Simon believes her experience would be a good addition to the US show.
It has been claimed that the 53-year-old is also confident that Latin pop star Paulina, 41, could attract new viewers.
“Paulina is one of the most influential Latin celebrities in the world and Kelly brings some star power and experience since she judged on the UK version of X Factor a couple years ago,” the source added.
It seems Simon wants the panel to enjoy “real chemistry” this time around, after previous seasons featured stars such as Britney, Paula Abdul and Nicole Scherzinger.
He is said to have been impressed by young pop star Demi and thinks she will form a close bond with Kelly and Paulina.
“All the women really get along well and Demi continues to have great chemistry and banter with Simon,” revealed the insider.
Other names linked to the judging panel include Jennifer Love Hewitt and Hilary Duff.
Meanwhile the hosts for the upcoming third season are also being given a shake-up after it was confirmed Khloé Kardashian would not be returning to present with Mario Lopez.
