TMZ Report: Britney Spears to Quit 'The X Factor'

TMZ reported late Wednesday night that the pop star, who served as a judge on the most recent season of the Fox singing competition, has quit the show to focus on her music. An unnamed source tells the website, "Britney loves Simon, she likes Demi Lovato, but her thing is music."

Spears is currently in the studio recording her eighth album with some help from Will.i.am and all-star producer Hit-Boy. TMZ reports that the singer wants to head out on tour after she completes the album, and judging another season of The X Factor would obviously conflict with that.


Though there had been some reports that Simon Cowell was less than thrilled with Britney's judging skills (and with her failure to boost ratings despite her whopping $15 million paycheck), earlier this week Fox executives insisted they'd love to have Spears back on The X Factor.

"I think Britney did a really good job," Fox entertainment chairman Kevin Reilly told reporters at the Television Critics Association winter press tour on Tuesday. "She came on, people remain fascinated with her and always will be. She’s just an interesting figure who’s lived a unique life, and I thought she brought some of that."

When asked point blank if Fox wanted Britney back next season, Reilly replied, "Yeah." The network has not yet commented on TMZ's latest report.

Do you think Britney has really quit The X Factor after just one season? Are you sad to see her go? Shocked? Sound off with your thoughts in the comments below!