Telly Mix

The former Pussycat Doll – who appeared as a guest judge at the recent London try-outs – will join Gary Barlow, Tulisa Contostavlos and Louis Walsh on the panel full-time from Monday, when the auditions tour stops in Newcastle.

Simon Cowell previously axed her from the American version of the show in January after just one season.

Nicole commented: “I’m so excited to join the UK X Factor family. It’s where I got my start, so it feels great to come full circle. I can’t wait to see what talent the UK has to offer and to help inspire and bring out the best in these artists.”

Peter Fincham, ITV’s Director of Television said: “Nicole will bring her wealth of experience, both as a solo artist, and as a member of a group, to this year’s Judging panel. We’re delighted that she’ll be joining us for the forthcoming series.”

Richard Holloway, Managing Director at producers Thames added: “Nicole is an absolute star. She’s sold millions of records worldwide and she’s extremely well qualified as a Judge – she was brilliant when she stood in as a Guest Judge two years ago and again this year. We can’t wait to start working with her.”

Charles Garland, Chief Executive of Syco Entertainment stated: “We are delighted to welcome back Nicole to the UK X Factor. Nicole is a global star and proved to be extremely popular with viewers when she guest judged for the UK panel two years ago and it’s great to have her on the team.

During Nicole’s time in the The Pussycat Dolls, they sold 15 million albums and 37 million singles worldwide making them one of the biggest girl groups ever.

She left the Dolls in December 2010, before releasing solo album ‘Killer Love’ in 2011. Her single ‘Don’t Hold Your Breath’ hit the top spot in the UK charts, while ‘Poison’ and ‘Right There’ also made the top five.