Simon Cowell gives his talent show "The X Factor" a major shake-up.<br/> <br />Cowell has confirmed that host Steve Jones and judges Nicole Scherzinger and Paula Abdul will not return for the show's second season.<br/> <br />Abdul -- Cowell's old "American Idol" sparring partner -- released a statement saying:<br/> <br />"Yes, it's true; I won't be returning to The X Factor next season. I've learned through my longevity in this industry that business decisions often times override personal considerations."<br/> <br />It ends by saying, Simon "will remain a dear friend of mine".<br/> <br />Cowell also commented, saying a "massive thank you to Paula, Nicole and Steve for being part of 'The X Factor' last year".<br/> <br />Left at the judges table are Cowell, who is also the show's creator and record producer Antonio "L.A." Reid.<br/> <br />So far there is no word on replacements.<br/> <br />Alicia Powell, Reuters.
