Demi Lovato leaving 'The X Factor' after third season, Simon Cowell hints at big shakeups for struggling program

It seems like The X Factor will be down one judge next year. According to People, Demi Lovato will not be returning to the Fox TV show next season in order to focus on her music.

A source close to the singer told the magazine that she's going to spend 2014 focusing on her music but that Lovato enjoyed her time on the show.

Lovato joined the show in 2012 alongside Britney Spears. Whereas Spears left the show after one season, the "Heart Attack" singer stuck around.

Indeed, The X Factor's grueling schedule would come in conflict with at least some of Lovato's plans for the new year. She's planning on hitting the road beginning February 9 for the Neon Lights Tour alongside X Factor alums Cher Lloyd, Little Mix and Fifth Harmony.

Lovato's departure from the show won't be the only difference on the struggling singing competition, which clocks in far fewer viewers than similar shows such as The Voice and American Idol. In an interview with Deadline, X Factor creator Simon Cowell dispelled rumors that the show has been cancelled altogether. However, he did admit that there will be big shakeups in the format and that while he will return to the show, it's likely to be in a role other than judges.

There is no word on whether or not Kelly Rowland and Paulina Rubio will return as judges for season four.

Tags

Demi Lovato, The X Factor, Simon Cowell, Cher Lloyd, Little Mix, Fifth Harmony