Paula Abdul Officially Joins ‘The X Factor’ Judges’ Panel, Says Reuniting With Simon Cowell Is A ‘Dream Come True’

It’s official – Paula Abdul will join judges Antonio “L.A.” Reid, Cheryl Cole and Simon Cowell for the upcoming American version of Simon’s reality competition, “The X Factor,” FOX revealed at the show’s LA auditions on Sunday.

And though Paula and the often cantankerous Brit had their differences during their mutual years judging “American Idol,” Paula is over the moon about reteaming with her former small screen foe.

“[This is] another dream come true, believe it or not,” Paula told Access Hollywood at the auditions on Sunday.

Though the “Straight Up” singer’s name has been tossed about for months as a possible judge for the show, Paula said she was forced to keep the news under wraps for “a long time” as the details of the deal had yet to be ironed out.

“I had the hopes that I was [coming back],” a grateful Paula told Access. “I never assume anything, but this was one wish that came true.”

Unlike her “American Idol” days of old, Paula will not be the lone female judge on “The X Factor” as she’ll be joined by British Girls Aloud pop star — and UK “X Factor” judge — Cheryl Cole, who told Access she’s equally excited to begin searching for talent stateside.

“I’m hopefully going to find a worldwide superstar and that’s exciting,” Cheryl, who was also on hand for the taping, told Access.

The 27–year-old brunette rose to fame as a contestant on the UK’s “Popstars The Rivals,” so she’s well aware of the nerves that are inherent when it comes to having one’s talent scrutinized in front of millions.

“It’s tough because I know how it feels to stand on that spot and be judged, if you like,” she told Access. “So I like to feel I can give them a helping hand.”

Cheryl – who has reportedly been linked to “Dancing with the Stars” pro Derek Hough following her September 2010 divorce from her footballer then-husband, Ashley Cole – said that although Derek’s former “Dancing” partner, Nicole Scherzinger, was announced as a co-host for “The X Factor” on Sunday, Derek is not the link between the three parties.

“No, I’m going to meet Nicole properly just now,” Cheryl replied, when asked if Nicole earned a spot on the show due to their mutual friend, Derek. “I’m actually really excited to meet her – seems like a lovely girl.”

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