X Factor 2014: Simon Cowell to return as judge

Simon Cowell is set to return as a judge on the upcoming series of The X Factor, which is set to hit screens in autumn.

The media mogul, who has been absent from the show for the past few years, will lead the judging panel when the show returns for its 11th series later this year.

Simon, the creator of The X Factor, returns to the UK X Factor after three years in the US working on the American version of the hit worldwide show.

The news comes after the show suffered a ratings slump after Simon departed to concentrate on its US counterpart.

The record label executive, whose entertainment company Syco co-produces The X Factor with Fremantle Media UK, said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be returning to The X Factor UK. It’s been three years since I last judged the competition and I’m excited to find a global superstar again.”

“The UK X Factor has set the benchmark in finding worldwide superstars over the years – including One Direction, Leona Lewis, Cher Lloyd, Olly Murs , JLS and Little Mix.”

Simon continued: “Despite all the rumours, ITV and the producers have not decided on the rest of the judging panel quite yet. You’ll just have to wait and see….”

Peter Fincham, ITV’s director of television, added: “It's fantastic news that Simon is returning to The X Factor. We are all very much looking forward to him re-joining the judging panel later this year."

Sara Geater, CEO Fremantle Media UK: “We’re delighted to welcoming Simon back to the panel for this year’s X Factor and are looking forward to what is sure to be a great series.”

The other three judges on the panel have yet to be confirmed officially, although Louis Walsh, Nicole Scherzinger and Sharon Osbourne are all expected to return. Former judge Gary Barlow confirmed that last year's show would be his last.

Culled from MSN News.