The X Factor USA enjoyed a relatively successful first season on the Fox network in 2011, though it's evident Simon Cowell feels the singing-contest could perform far better given the correct judging team and host. He's already axed Nicole Scherzinger, Paula Abdul and Steve Jones from the show, and appears to have a couple of big-names lined up as replacements.

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday (February 22, 2012), Cowell confirmed that "two girls" would probably be added to the judging line-up to join himself and La Reid for season two. Music-mogul Reid added, "That we can confirm". The remarks sent the rumor mill into overdrive, with a source close to Britney Spears telling US Weekly she is close to agreeing terms. Another insider told the UK's Sun newspaper, "She's (Britney) a huge fan of The X Factor and thinks it's the perfect time for her to be a judge. She wants to show her fans she is back to her best and where better to do that than on national TV every week? She knows all about the ups and downs of pop fame. And with her schedule relatively clear she has the time to dedicate to a different project". Other names thought to be in the frame include Black Eyed Peas singer Fergie and Janet Jackson, who remained coy on the subject while chatting to Anderson Cooper this week.

Though Scherzinger and Abdul could be considered household names, it appears Simon Cowell has a different level of fame in-mind for the second season of The X Factor USA.