simon cowell leaves x factor UKAmidst nonstop buzz about the upcoming American incarnation of 'The X Factor,' Simon Cowell is leaving the weekly judging spot on the British show he created.

ITV tells the BBC Cowell will divide his time between the American and British versions of the show, and that the network is "completely comfortable" with the decision and "talking about ways in which he can have an on-screen presence later in the series."

Cowell will lead the 'X Factor' judging table on FOX this fall, which, aside from Def Jam exec L.A. Reid, has yet to be filled up.