by Wilfred Okiche

Paula Abdul, former Pussycat Doll; Nicole Scherzinger  and host Steve Jones will not be returning for the next season of the Fox reality tv series, The X Factor.

Creator of the series, Simon Cowell put out a Dear John statement thanking the trio for their work: ‘’I want to say a massive thank you to Paula, Nicole and Steve for being part of the X Factor last year. We had a lot of fun making the show together and most importantly, we found some real talent and stars.’’

Host, Steve Jones was the first casualty of the massive reorganisation and his departure did not come as much of a surprise as he never really clicked with viewers who found his style boring. He confirmed his exit via his Twitter handle, ‘’I won’t be hosting next season’s X Factor which is a shame but I can’t complain as I’ve had a great time. Good luck to everyone on the show.’’

Nicole Scherzinger will be leaving to pursue a solo career and a source close to her revealed to E!News that it was her idea to leave as serving as a judge on the show took up more time than she had anticipated.

While Scherzinger’s and Jones’ departures were imminent from the get go, Paula Abdul’s future on the show was under heavy speculation as she is a close friend and associate of the show’s British creator Simon Cowell. Their relationship goes back to their days judging alongside Randy Jackson on American Idol.

However she confirmed her exit Tuesday with the release of an official statement, ‘’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.’’ She continued, ‘’Simon is and will remain a dear friend of mine and I treasure my experience working with my extended family at Fox and Freemantle.’’

The overhaul leaves Simon Cowell and L.A. Reid as the only judges retaining their roles from season one.

What do you think? Should they have been let go? Will the show sink or swim?

Sound off here.