According to the British press, Simon Cowell has resigned as judge of the UK's X Factor show to concentrate on the US X Factor. The British network execs at ITV tried desperately to get Simon to stay, but filming both shows would be too much, even for the surly Brit. It's been reported the reason is his health, the stress of juggling everything has finally gotten to him. 

I wonder what will happen to his $150 million contract with ITV for backing out of judging duties?

Cheryl Cole will also leave her post as UK X Factor judge, according to fellow judge, Louis Walsh: "It will be me and Dannii on the UK show with two more people," said Walsh.

Cheryl is hoping to land a spot as judge on the US show alongside Simon and music mogul, LA Reid. It's not confirmed, but by all accounts, she's this close.

This doesn't bode well for the usually boastful Cowell. Everyone was thinking American Idol would tank after his departure, but ratings are better than ever. He's got a lot riding on this new show, touting a $5 million recording contract to the winner -- the highest cash prize ever for a TV contest. 

I don't watch the UK X Factor so I have no idea what I'll miss, but I do miss Simon on American Idol because he really was the one judge who always said what was on my mind. It's way too lovey dovey for my liking now. I want Simon back! 

It will be interesting to see how the American X Factor unfolds. I'm intrigued, are you?

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