Britney Spears Inks Deal as “X Factor” Judge: Reports

The pop star reportedly scored a $15 million contract to fill one of the seats left vacant following the show's January shakeup

Britney Spears will fill one of the "The X Factor" judge's seats left vacant after an early-year shakeup that tossed the show's host and two judges, according to reports.

E! Online reported the pop star signed a $15 million contract to join the musical talent show alongside Simon Cowell. Us Weekly also cited a source in reporting that Spears landed the gig.

The "Toxic" singer's addition to Fox's singing competition came after Paula Abdul, Nicole Scherzinger and host Steve Jones were axed in January.

Spears had been one of several celebrities, including Mariah Carey, Janet Jackson and Pink, whose names swirled around the rumor mill leading up to the reveal. Fox has yet to confirm the reports.

Cowell wouldn't deny rumors that Spears was at the top of his list when he was asked earlier in the year about a report the pop star had expressed interest in the gig.

"Are we flattered that there could be interest? Yes," he said, before adding, "I've learned a big lesson: Keep your mouth shut. Don't give it all away."

Just weeks ago, Access Hollywood also mentioned the Spears rumor during an on-camera interview with former judge Scherzinger.

Asked for words of wisdom she would pass to Spears, if she got the gig, Scherzinger said: "Be herself, because she's so bubbly and warm already, everyone alaready loves her."

Selected ReadingUs, People, E!

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