Simon Cowell Fires Steve Jones, Nicole Scherzinger From X Factor USA

Steve Jones, Nicole Scherzinger and Paula Abdul have been axed from the next series of the US X Factor.

The decision was made by creator Simon Cowell in a move to 'shake up' the show.

Jones told fans the news over Twitter: ''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."

Speaking to the Mirror last week, Cowell hinted that Jones could be leaving: "He got a lot of stick. I don't think he did a bad job but, like America's Got Talent, there is a Brit limit on the show."

The viewing figures for the show fell short of 20 million predicted by its creator, Simon Cowell.

The show bought in former Pussycat Dolls star Nicole Scherzinger to replace Cheryl Cole as a judge.

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