- LOS ANGELES: Grammy-winning music executive and producer Antonio "L.A." Reid is turning TV star for Simon Cowell's "The X Factor." Reid is stepping down as chairman of Island Def Jam Music Group and will join Cowell on the judging panel of Fox's new singing contest set to debut this fall.
- The series is based on Cowell's hit British show.
In a statement Friday by Fox, Cowell said Reid was his No. 1 choice. Others reported as possible judges on what Cowell has said will be a four-member panel include Paula Abdul, who teamed with Cowell on Fox's "American Idol," and Cheryl Cole of the U.K. "X Factor."
"The X Factor" is open to solo singers and vocal groups age 12 and up, with auditions starting March 27 in Los Angeles. The winner gets a $5 million record contract.