Fox cancels X Factor USA after Simon Cowell announces return to UK show

'There is no X Factor USA without Simon Cowell', says executive

Ratings for The X Factor had been declining

The US version of The X Factor has been cancelled as Simon Cowell returns to the UK to lead the judging panel on this side of the Atlantic.

Fox confirmed it was pulling The X Factor USA on Friday after three series.

Kevin Reilly, the broadcaster’s chairman of entertainment, thanked Mr Cowell for his work on the show and American Idol over the past 12 years.

He added: “Unfortunately, there is no X Factor USA without Simon Cowell, but we understand and support his decision to focus on the international formats and on the next phase of his personal life.”

Simon Cowell confirmed for X Factor return

Cowell left the show to establish the series in the US but audiences on both sides of the Atlantic failed to meet expectations.

He thanked fans on Twitter for their support, saying he had “the best time of [his] life” in America.

He wrote: “Today was a day of mixed emotions. Excited to confirm me returning to the UK X Factor and sad to leave America.”

Cowell is also preparing to become a father as his partner Lauren Silverman, 36, is due to give birth to their child next month.