Report: Jones, Scherzinger off 'X Factor' "The X Factor" judges Paula Abdul, Simon Cowell and Nicole Scherzinger (L-R) pose following "The X Factor" news conference at CBS Television City in Los Angeles on December 19, 2011. LOS ANGELES, Jan. 31 (UPI) -- Fox has confirmed host Steve Jones and judge Nicole Scherzinger won't be back for Season 2 of the U.S. version of "The X Factor." However, The Hollywood Reporter said the cable network has not yet commented on rumors claiming judge Paula Abdul is being booted from the vocal competition series produced by her former "American Idol" co-star Simon Cowell, as well. Cowell also serves as a judge on "X Factor," along with music producer LA Reid. The Hollywood Reporter said the casting decisions were made at a secret meeting in England intended to work out a strategy to improve the show's ratings. A source close to Reid told the entertainment industry trade newspaper he hasn't been told whether his contract has been renewed yet.