Cheryl ‘thrilled’ at big break on US TV as X-Factor goes international

After months of speculation she was yesterday confirmed to appear in the show – which could potentially make her a huge star in America.

The 27-year-old Girls Aloud singer – whose own career began on a TV talent show, ITV’s Popstars: The Rivals – will take her place alongside show supremo Simon Cowell and former record company boss LA Reid.

“I can’t wait to get started,” said Cole yesterday.

Cowell has long championed her as a potential panellist for the show, which he is launching in the US later this year.

She has served as a judge for three years on the UK version of the hugely successful Saturday night series for ITV.

However she is more or less unknown to American audiences, which left many wondering whether Cowell would take a gamble on appointing her to such a high-profile position.

In an interview last week he said that bosses at TV network Fox had been impressed by her in the early stages of negotiations to launch a version of the show across the Atlantic.

Cowell said yesterday: “I’m thrilled for Cheryl. She is massively excited about this show, and has been fantastic to work with. She is also a complete brat. Most importantly, this girl can spot talent.”

Cole said: “I can’t wait to get started. I just can’t decide whether I am more excited to find and nurture the talent or for the unbelievable amount of amusement and entertainment I will have watching Simon doing everything and anything he can to beat me.”