Britney Spears Quits 'X Factor' to Avoid Being Fired?

By Sami K. Martin, Christian Post Reporter Thursday, January 10, 2013

Britney Spears has officially left her job at the "X Factor," reports state. There are conflicting reports as to whether Spears left her job ahead of being fired, or if the star simply left to focus on other work.

"Britney loves Simon, she likes Demi Lovato, but her thing is music," an "unimpeachable source" from Fox told TMZ on Wednesday night.

Yet rumors have persisted that Simon Cowell, producer of the "X Factor," has not been pleased with Spears' performance as a judge for the show. He reportedly expected more drama from the star but was disappointed when she turned out to be levelheaded and a consistent part of the show.

"The producers have an idea of who they want for this year's panel, which they discussed over the holidays, and they know who they want in her place," sources told BuzzFeed. "Britney hasn't been part of those plans for this season but that's not really coming as a surprise to anyone. She did her best last year, but it was time to part ways."

One of the reasons Spears is being let go is possibly the lower rating for the series. According to Deadline.com, the "X Factor" lost nearly 20 percent of its viewers from the previous season. That may not all be Spears' fault, but she could be a factor in the lower rating, especially if she failed to perform as Cowell had hoped.

"I thought it went very, very well," Fox entertainment chairman Kevin Reilly told reporters. "It was fraught with unknowns, and I think Britney did a very good job. People are fascinated with her and always will be. Last year the ratings were a little bit higher, but I think it was a better show this year. I think she tucked in really nicely on the bench."

According to MTV, Spears has been working on a new album, her first since 2011. The pop star has been working with Hit-Boy and Will.i.am and is "reportedly considering mounting a tour." It would be the first for Spears since she had a breakdown and began working to better herself and her family life.