Britney Spears Confirmed For The X Factor USA 2012 Judging Panel

14 May 2012, 22:13 | Updated: 14 May 2012, 22:32

The 'Criminal' singer will join Demi Lovato and returning judges L.A. Reid and Simon Cowell on the show's panel.

Britney Spears has been officially for the judging panel of The X Factor USA.

The 'Criminal' singer joins Camp Rock star Demi Lovato as the show's new judges alongside returning panelists Simon Cowell and L.A. Reid on the new series, which kicks off this autumn.

After several weeks of speculation FOX confirmed the news earlier today (14th May) in New York City, following the departures of former judges Nicole Scherzinger and Paula Abdul at the end of last season.

"I couldn't be more excited to join The X Factor judging panel," Britney said, in a statement posted on the show's official website. "I'm a huge fan of the show and now I get to be part of the action. Simon and L.A. better watch out!"

"I'm absolutely delighted Britney and Demi are joining us," fellow judge Simon Cowell also said as part of the announcement. "Britney remains one of the biggest starts in the world.

"She's talented, fascinating - and I believe she knows exactly how to spot the X Factor," Simon added, before moving on to discuss fellow new addition Demi Lovato. "Demi's had an amazing career in music, TV and film for someone her age.

"She's young, confident and enthusiastic. I think it's really important that she speaks to our younger audience," he explained. "The new panel will be dynamic and will work really well with the changes we are making to the show."

Prior to the official announcement Britney also posted a picture of herself on Twitter alongside the other three judges.

View a picture of Britney Spears posing alongside Demi Lovato, Simon Cowell and L.A. Reid below (Credit: Twitter):