The X Factor

As we know, Simon Cowell is shuffling The X Factor’s judges and hosts with all the dexterity of a blackjack dealer at Monte Carlo. Indeed, with Paula Abdul, Nicole Scherzinger and Steve Jones having passed their expiration dates, it’s anyone’s guess as to what the show’s next season will look like.

But if there’s anyone who can offer some credible info on what’s to come on our favorite sing-fest, it’s those who’ve already been through the gauntlet: namely, the ever-lovable Josh Krajcik. The Ohio native and Season 1 runner-up, also a disciple of axed Scherzinger, admitted that “I’m a little shocked”... but not about Nicole. “I’m a little surprised that Paula left. At least with Nicole, I kind of knew that she wanted more time for her music career.”

Krajcik noted that there didn’t seem to be any outstanding trouble between The X Factor’s judges and its producers (even if there was high drama among the judges themselves!), but he did concede that Scherzinger, for her part, could spend only so much time with the contestants: “She was around enough to help, but not around for much to hinder[.] … There was a good balance with Nicole.”

That’s a very diplomatic way of putting it, but then Krajcik veered into back-handed compliment territory. When asked about what would best benefit The X Factor in the judge department next season, Krajcik said, “Having somebody with great vocal ability and [the knowledge] of what it takes to be a successful artist would be awesome for future contestants.”

What exactly are you trying to say about the departing judges, eh, Josh?

Source: TV Guide