The much-talked about US premiere of the singing competition series The X-Factor is just around the corner, and Simon Cowell has a few tricks up his sleeve to ensure that the UK import is a success.  The former American Idol Judge has reportedly recruited Rihanna as a special guest judge.
RiRi will join her former boss and mentor LA Reid on the judges panel along with Cowell, Paula Abdul and Nicole Scherzinger for at least one episode. The pop star made a guest appearance on the UK version of the program for its finale last year.
The X-Factor will premiere September 21 on Fox. Mariah Carey is also expected to make an appearance on the star-studded program, although it's not clear yet in what capacity.

(Photo: PacificCoastNews.com)