Cheryl Cole Named Third ‘X Factor’ Judge

After months of speculation, Simon Cowell has named British pop superstar Cheryl Cole as the third judge on FOX’s X Factor.

“I’m thrilled for Cheryl. She is massively excited about this show, and has been fantastic to work with,” series creator Cowell, 51, told Us Weekly in a statement Tuesday. “She is also a complete brat! Most importantly, this girl can spot talent.”

Cole, 27, and Cowell’s Stateside banter will surely come easy, as they’ve sat together onX Factor‘s U.K. panel for the past three years.

“I’m so excited to be taking part in the American version of The X Factor. I absolutely love it here in the U.K., and with the talent they have out in America, I’m sure we’re going to find someone very special,” Cole, a member of Girls Aloud, says.

“I can’t wait to get started. I just cant decide whether I am more excited to find and nurture the talent or for the unbelievable amount of amusement and entertainment I will have watching Simon doing everything and anything he can to beat me,” she continues. “He’s tried to beat me for three years in the U.K., and hasn’t even come close. His ego must be so bruised. America is gonna love this.”

The show’s two hosts will be named at a later date. Auditions for The X Factor continue in Dallas May 26.