Paula Abdul

Paula Abdul

PAULA ABDUL has reunited with her AMERICAN IDOL co-star Simon Cowell after joining the line-up of his new series, the X-Factor.

Abdul was revealed as the last judge on the panel on Sunday (08 May 11) as she joined Cowell, British pop star Cheryl Cole and three-time Grammy Winning Music Producer Mogul Antonio 'L.A.' Reid to kick off the talent search in Los Angeles at the University of Southern California's Galen Center.

  Speaking at a press conference before the recording, Abdul told The Hollywood Reporter, "This is a brand new adventure. We have a whole new approach."

  The forthcoming The X Factor is a U.S. version of Cowell's hit U.K. show, and Abdul, who served as a judge alongside her pal on American Idol for six years, is excited to reunite with the Mogul.

  She says, "I really miss him - it's awkward and wonderful at the same time."

  Reid adds, "(Cowell) said putting together a panel of host and judges is like seating a great dinner party. He says he's very good at it and I believe him."

  The Opposites Attract hitmaker has reportedly been released from her contract for TV series Live to Dance to appear on The X Factor.

  Meanwhile, Pussycat Doll Nicole Scherzinger and Welsh TV personality Steve Jones have been confirmed as presenters of The X Factor, which will debut in America later this year (11).