Steve Jones axed from X Factor

Steve Jones says that it is a "shame" he will not be hosting the second season of X Factor.

The Welsh television personality was at the helm of the American version of the hit singing competition.

But he took to his Twitter page yesterday to confirm rumours that he has been axed.

"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," he wrote. "Good luck to everyone on the show."

Steve did not elaborate on the reasons for him leaving the high-profile job.

Simon Cowell, who is judge and executive producer on the show, is apparently determined to make adjustments to the programme which did not perform as well as expected in its premiere season.

He had told Britain's Daily Mirror that he didn't think Steve "did a bad job" but that there is a "Brit limit" on the show.

There are also unconfirmed rumours that Nicole Scherzinger may not be returning to the judging panel.

Nicole is believed to have quit so she can concentrate on singing and has been given Simon's "blessing".

However, Deadline.com is reporting that Nicole, along with fellow judge Paula Abdul, has been asked to leave the show.

"None of the three left on their own accord," Deadline editor Nikki Finke revealed. "It was cleaning house day at the so-so rated show."

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