Steve Jones Dropped As Host of U.S. X Factor

Steve Jones has announced he won't be returning as the host of America's The X Factor.

The Welsh star was rumoured to be leaving the series after failing to impress viewers following the first series of the talent competition last year (11).

Show boss Simon Cowell spoke out midway through the series to insist Jones' job was safe, stating, "There is a lot of speculation about Steve Jones leaving the show. To avoid any confusion, Steve will be hosting all of the live shows and he's doing a great job".

But it has now been revealed he has been dropped ahead of the second season later this year (12).

In a message on his Twitter.com page, he writes, "I wont be hosting next seasons XFactor which is a shame but I cant complain as I've had a great time. Good luck to everyone on the show".

He's not the first British star to be dropped from the line-up - singerCheryl Cole was axed from the judging panel at the start of last series to make way for Nicole Scherzinger.