Cheryl Fernandez-Versini is leaving the X Factor (again), but this time to concentrate on making new music.
In a statement, released yesterday, the Geordie beauty said:
'I have had such an amazing experience being a judge on the X Factor.
'I have learnt so much and enjoyed nurturing talent but I’ve missed making music and am excited to be recording again.
'I want to thank everybody I have worked with along the way, especially Simon, who I love to bits. I hope the show continues to produce stars and I wish them all the best.'
She's had a rocky road with the incredibly popular talent show, leaving it in 2010, only to return to it in 2014 after dealing with various personal obstacles.
We'll be very sad to see Cheryl go, as she's been back to her feisty self and as entertaining as ever during the last few X Factor seasons, but we can't help but image who might be her replacement.
A quick straw poll in the ELLE office provided a couple of wild card choices.
Though some wanted Rita Ora back, others thought it would be fun to go super old school, requesting that we bring Nicki Chapman back to relive her Pop Idol glory days.
Others thought British cake baker extraordinaire Mary Berry would make an excellent addition to the line up.
At least there'd be no soggy bottoms on her watch!
Thoughts?
Natasha Bird is the Former Executive Editor (Digital) of ELLE.
