Nicole Scherzinger prefers judging role

Nicole Scherzinger thinks she is "better served as a judge" on the US X Factor.

The former Pussycat Dolls star replaced Cheryl Cole on the panel of the musical talent search show and is pleased she was moved from her original role as co-host alongside Steve Jones because she thinks she will be of more use to the show.

Asked about why Cheryl was sacked, Nicole said: "I have no idea. I think she made the decision ultimately for herself. I heard that maybe Girls Aloud are going back on tour.

"I did start out as a host and then they asked me to be a judge, I felt like I was better served as a judge, I could mentor and have a voice."

Nicole - who turned 33 yesterday - loves working with fellow judges Simon Cowell and Paula Abdul on the show because their bond is as entertaining as watching the contestants.

She told Australian radio station 2Day FM's Kyle and Jackie O show: "He's a lot of fun, he vibrates at a certain level so everybody else vibrates at that level, if you allow him to he brings out the best in you.

"My most favourite part of these auditions, other than seeing the talent is watching Simon and Paula bicker back and forth, they're brilliant together."

Joining Nicole, Simon and Paula on the judging panel of the TV talent show is music producer L.A. Reid.

- BANG! Showbiz