Cheryl Fernandez-Versini 'quits X-Factor to focus on music career'

Cheryl Fernandez-Versini has decided to quit The X Factor to focus on her music career, it was reported.

The former Girls Aloud singer told Simon Cowell, the show's boss, of her decision last week at a dinner in Hollywood, The Sun reported.

"Cheryl told Simon of her decision at dinner last week in LA. They have had many discussions about the new series but she finally made up her mine," a friend told the newspaper. "Her relationship with Simon is the best it's ever been and they both are incredibly supportive of each other.

"Last year was one of her favourite series, she had a lot of fun mentoring her groups and enjoyed working closely with the production team on the show."

The 32-year-old singer, who is reportedly in a relationship with One Direction star Liam Payne, is recording a new album in Los Angeles.

"Music is her number one passion and she has just started working on a new album which she wants out later this year," the friend was quoted as saying. "She's having a great time in the US with Liam and getting back to her pop roots. Simon understands her reasons. He is supportive. X Factor will always be a special show for her as it changed her life."

While many of the show's fans on Twitter expressed disappointment that she was leaving the show, some said they hoped it would pave the way for the return of Sharon Osbourne, who is reportedly in talks with Cowell.

The show is already undergoing a shake-up, with Nick Grimshaw not returning as a judge and presenter Caroline Flack also leaving.

Dermot O'Leary will be returning as host this autumn after a year away, while Louis Walsh could also make a comeback to the show.

After 11 years on the show, Walsh had enjoyed the longest run as a judge on The X Factor until last year, when he was replaced by Grimshaw, a BBC Radio One DJ. X Factor suffered a ratings blow of more than one million viewers between 2015 and 2014.