Mariah Carey Reportedly Not Joining 'X Factor'

As anticipation grows for the debut of Simon Cowell's "X Factor," there's one industry vet who will not appear on the reality singing show's judging panel: Mariah Carey. Despite previous whispers about her joining the celebrity lineup, it appears that the soon-to-be mom has turned down Cowell's request to judge the talent show, according to Essence.com.

While Cowell did approach the iconic pop singer/songwriter with the request, the songstress "politely declined," as she's gearing up for the arrival of her twins and writing material for her next studio album.

News of Carey's decision comes just days after the pop megastar's longtime label boss, L.A. Reid, joined the forthcoming Fox show. On Thursday, the record executive resigned from his chairman position at Island Def Jam for a spot on the judges' panel. Reid joined the record label in 2004 and is most noted for assisting Carey with her comeback the following year. With Reid free to take up a position at Sony Music, the label that will provide the "X Factor" winner with a recording contract, rumors have swirled that Carey will wrap up her contract with Universal Music Group and follow the executive to Sony Music.

Fans won't have to wait much longer to find out the remaining judges who have signed on for "X Factor." Last week, Cowell told that he was days away from unveiling the lineup. He also opened up about his efforts to collect a top-notch panel for the show.

"It's gonna be a balance between guys and girls, and it should be a balance between people who have been singers and also, like me, have worked behind the scenes and know what they're talking about it," the former "American Idol" judge MTV News. "It will be the best judging panel so far. I promise you: If I get the people I want, I'm really happy."

Who do you want to see judge "X Factor"? Share your ideas in the comments!