Simon Cowell has reportedly axed Nicole Scherzinger and Paula Abdul from X Factor USA whilst Steve Jones has confirmed his exit from the reality show.

A Fox source has confirmed that Scherzinger has left the show to focus on her music career. Meanwhile doubts remain over Abdul's future on the programme, which also stars L.A. Reid.

Speaking about Nicole, a source told E! Online: "She wants to focus on her music career. She's spoken to Simon [Cowell] and he's given her his blessing."

Adding: "X Factor took a lot more of her time than she ever expected. She didn't have any time really to work on her music. She was doing X Factor six days a week."

Meanwhile, Steve Jones posted on Twitter on Monday night (Jan 30) to confirm his exit.

"I wont be hosting next seasons X Factor which is a shame but I cant complain as I've had a great time. Good luck to everyone on the show."

It is rumoured that Scherzinger could move to Andrew Lloyd-Webber's new ITV show, 'Superstar'.