It's official: Paula Abdul is the final judge on Fox's upcoming singing competition show The X Factor!

It was rumored for quite some time that series creator Simon Cowell was courting his former American Idol co-star to appear on the US version of the popular UK show, and she told TV Guide she's thrilled to be reunited with him.  Abdul will be joining British singing sensation Cheryl Cole, music mogul Antonio "LA" Reid and Cowell on the judging panel, and it was previously announced that Nicole Scherzinger and Steve Jones will co-host the program.

"I am beyond thrilled!" Abdul told TV Guide during the first day of auditions in Los Angeles. "I am exhilarated. I am terrified of Simon. I've really missed him, and I have no idea what to expect."

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"We're meeting for the first time right now and getting into the chemistry we have," Abdul told TV Guide on Sunday.  "It's a brand new adventure and a different show. With passionate people, things happen."  The Idol alum added, "You know, I'm here. Only Simon and I would understand. I have mentored and sought out talent for the past 20 plus years and this is exactly where I'm supposed to be."  The next audition takes place on May 26 in Dallas, Texas, and the show is set to premiere in September.

Will you watch?

Photo courtesy of Fame Pictures