Before Simon Cowell can even show-off his latest British-transplant show where finding great talent is the focus, X-Factor has been wrapped in rumors and controversy surrounding the judges. Most of the media attention stems from the booting of English judge, Cheryl Cole, which Cowell reportedly says "was no big deal."

Fired because producers thought her English accent was too thick for American viewers, Cole has been replaced by sexy singer/dancer Nicole Scherzinger who recently taped her first moments as a judge on the show earlier this week in New Jersey.

Regarding the X-judge, Yahoo! News quotes Scherzinger as calling her “a lovely, beautiful girl.” Paula Abdul calls Cole a friend and says they “have a great time together.” L.A. Reid is less vocal, providing no comment at all. It’ll be interesting to see how this show differs from others, namely American Idol and now The Voice.

(Photo: Ray Mickshaw/FOX/PictureGroup)