[Kerry]

Simon Cowell has reportedly decided that he will appear on the upcoming series of The X Factor UK.

It had previously been suggested that the music mogul, who is in talks with Fox executives to finalise the judging lineup for the launch of The X Factor USA later this year, would not participate in the British version of the talent competition.

However, The Mirror reports that Cowell has now changed his mind and declared that there "is no show" without him.

A source said that Cowell has altered the filming schedules to accommodate both shows in an arrangement that will see him make weekly trips between London and the US.

The insider added: "Both sides believe it is absolutely critical for Simon to do the show here and have been trying to find every way possible of him doing so."

It is thought that The X Factor US will show on Tuesdays and Wednesdays on Fox, while the British version will take its usual Saturday and Sunday slots. A "major revamp" is also expected when the music search begins in the UK this autumn.

An official announcement regarding Cowell's involvement in The X Factor UK is expected at the end of next week.

DS

Bang goes his home and social life. No wonder he's never married or had kids

[arista]

Of course
King Simon
Knows the Score

[ILoveTRW]

What does "appear" actually mean though. He might just turn up to one audition city.

[Kerry]

Maybe he's auditioning....

[Tom.]

I think he'll be there for bootcamp onwards but I think he'll see the reaction to the new look BGT before deciding whether to sit the X Factor auditions out or not.

Theres no reason why he can't do both- if one of the Strictly Come Dancing judges can do it then theres no reason why Simon can't, even if it means him becoming an impartial judge on our series.

[Kerry]

Must be bloody knackering

[cub]

I think it is ITV that have decided 'no Simon, no show' not Simon Cowell. I think it would have meant that the UK X Factor would have been seen as only part of the franchise - as the Australian version is - and not the real thing.

The Australians would love to have Simon Cowell on their show.

X Factor withOUT Simon Cowell would be a step backwards to Pop Stars with Pete Waterman or something.

I try not to follow these daily 'are they/aren't they' stories on Digital Spy (a 62 year old Lionel Richie as a XF judge is ... just depressing), but *fingers crossed* I hope this is true.

We must have Simon Cowell on the X Factor in order for it to be authentic.