Sharon Osbourne has caused controversy by stating that Cheryl Colewon’t win over American viewers if she becomes a judge on Nicole Scherzinger’s territory and that viewers were unlikely to be interested in anything Cheryl did or said.

"Cheryl's perfect for England, she's the nation's sweetheart and they absolutely love her,” Sharon told Now magazine. “But over here it's Nicole's town. You have to think of the audience and most of them would never have heard of Girls Aloud.

"Nicole's great TV, has a huge following here in the States and people absolutely love her. Plus she's beautiful and talented."

The Pussycat Dollssinger won over Simon Cowellwhen she filled in on The X Factor when Cheryl fell ill with malaria. Although not confirmed, it’s thought likely he will offer theGeorge Michaelwill be joining the US judging panel.

Reports had claimed the Faith singer had signed to X Factor USA in a £1m deal. Instead, Simon has promised to make a “surprise” announcement regarding the show before the New Year.

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