Nellie Andreeva

‘X FACTOR’S DRAMA, DRAMA, DRAMA: Nicole Scherzinger Didn’t Want Corbin Bleu As Co-Host; Now Steve Jones Done Deal As Replacement

Multi-talented performer and chart-topping artist Nicole Scherzinger and British TV personality Steve Jones will host THE X FACTOR, the highly anticipated singing competition series debuting this fall on FOX. Scherzinger, who recently served as a guest judge on the U.K. version of “The X Factor,” is a singer, songwriter and performer and Jones began his career as a fashion model and has gone on to host some of the U.K.’s biggest TV shows.

From the auditions right through to the live performance shows, the duo will follow the contestants and judges onstage and backstage to share the raw emotions and electrifying performances with viewers at home every week.

“These two are going to be great together,” said Simon Cowell. “I have always wanted Steve to work with us; I think he is a real star. Nicole is fantastic. I loved working with her on the U.K. ‘X Factor’ last year. She is gorgeous and super-talented.”

“I am thrilled to be asked by Simon Cowell to host THE X FACTOR,” said Scherzinger. “I loved working alongside Simon on the U.K. show, and cannot wait to see what he has in store for the U.S. I’m so excited to work with Steve Jones and help discover astounding talent from across the country!”

“I couldn’t be happier to be coming onto THE X FACTOR,” said Jones. “The ability to work day in and day out with Simon Cowell is a dream come true. I am honored to have that opportunity and thrilled to be able to share the stage with Nicole Scherzinger, whom I adore. I have been approached about working in the States before, but never felt right about those opportunities. But when THE X FACTOR came up, I lept at the opportunity.”

“Nicole is a triple-threat performer who knows how to captivate an audience, and Steve is an accomplished presenter whose original sense of humor has charmed viewers worldwide. Both possess the unique combination of personality and credibility that we were looking for in our hosts,” said Mike Darnell, President of Alternative Entertainment, Fox Broadcasting Company. “They’re incredibly charismatic, undeniably gorgeous, and fantastic entertainers in their own right.”

“A student of the performing arts since childhood, Nicole Scherzinger is a talent tour de force whose track record spans many creative genres, while Steve Jones is a multi-talented U.K. personality with consummate hosting skills and a signature charm, humor and style that is all his own,” said executive producer Cecile Frot-Coutaz. “I’m very pleased to have them both on board THE X FACTOR, where their respective experiences will bring a special and authentic chemistry to their roles as co-hosts.”

Auditions for the next global superstar or breakout music group continue with the final stop in Dallas, TX, on Thursday, May 26.

THE X FACTOR is searching for undiscovered talent 12 years old or over – both solo artists and vocal groups – who are willing to brave the panel for a chance to win a $5 million recording contract with Syco/Sony Music. Interested solo artists and vocal groups should sign up now for audition information at www.fox.com/theXfactor or call toll-free 855-345-5678.

In a departure from other singing competition series, the first time contestants audition for THE X FACTOR judges, including Simon Cowell, Antonio “L.A.” Reid and Cheryl Cole, they will do so in front of an audience of thousands – raising the stakes and increasing the pressure to impress not only the judges, but also a potential legion of fans. This will be the ultimate test to prove they have the vocal ability, charisma and stage presence that it takes to win an unprecedented $5 million recording contract with Syco/Sony Music.

As previously announced, Pepsi will serve as an official sponsor of THE X FACTOR. The comprehensive sponsorship includes an extensive, multi-platform off-air marketing partnership; weekly in-show integrations and placements; and an immersive content experience online.

THE X FACTOR is produced by Syco Television and FremantleMedia North America. Simon Cowell, Rob Wade and Siobhan Greene are executive producers for Syco Television. Cecile Frot-Coutaz, Richard Holloway and Andrew Llinares serve as executive producers for FremantleMedia North America.

TV Editor Nellie Andreeva - tip her here.