After weeks of speculation and discussion in the media, Simon Cowell has finally confirmed the first judge on the upcoming U.S. version of 'The X Factor': famed record producer, Antonio 'L.A.' Reid.

There's been much debate on who else Cowell will tap to judge the upcoming FOX talent competition, with names like Jessica Simpson and Cowell's old 'Idol' pal, Paula Abdul, bandied about.

And while there's surely going to be at least one outrageous/colorful character on the panel, it appears Cowell was serious when he told the press "I wanted to make a show where I, along with my fellow judges, help competitors on a regular basis."

There's certainly no one more qualified to aid contestants in their journey towards musical greatness than the man who launched the careers of Jay-Z, Justin Bieber and Bon Jovi, to name a few.