Britney Spears Quits The X Factor

When Simon Cowell announced that Britney Spears was joining the judges panel on The X Factor‘s 2nd Season, it was viewed as a brilliant move by the entertainment mogul. Spears, being one of the most famous women on the planet, came with a large fan base of loyal followers which the show’s producers banked would translate to viewers when the show premiered last Fall. Unfortunately the ratings -and her highly criticized lack luster performance on the show- didn’t match her hefty salary, so when the season ended it was immediately assumed that she’d likely not be asked back.

Thursday, reports began surfacing that the “Femme Fatale” had bowed out and would not be returning to the show’s 3rd Season. Whether a decision by Cowell or one from Miss Spears herself, the singer hinted on her Twitter that 2013 is all about the music.

“I’m seeing so much chatter about new music out there. Glad to see you’re all paying attention 😉 Lot of work to do in 2013! LETS GO!,” she tweeted Monday. And since, it has been reported that the singer is planning to release a new record and hit the road on a worldwide tour later in the year, which leaves no time for the FOX series.

UPDATE: Spears has released a statement confirming the departure. Read that below:

“I’ve made the very difficult decision not to return for another season. I had an incredible time doing the show and I love the other judges and I am so proud of my teens but it’s time for me to get back in the studio. Watching them all do their thing up on that stage every week made me miss performing so much! I can’t wait to get back out there and do what I love most.”

With both Britney and L.A. Reid out, Demi Lovato‘s future unknown and two hosts [Mario Lopez and Khloe Kardashian] that were absolutely abysmal, it looks like Simon has some serious work on his hands.

New music from Britney AND Justin Timberlake in one year?! Perhaps my Bubblegum dreams will come true and the once-lovers will finally make beautiful music together. Here’s to wishful thinking!

Google Plus: +Britney Spears +Demi Lovato +Justin Timberlake +The X Factor USA