Janet Jackson may join ‘X Factor’ talent show

Special from EURweb.com

Discussions are said to be in the early stages between Janet Jackson and the producers of “The X Factor” for her to join the judging panel alongside executive producer Simon Cowell and Antonio “L.A.’ Reid.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, any talks “are currently in the preliminary stages, as Cowell held meetings last week with potential candidates to fill the shoes of ousted judges Paula Abdul, Nicole Scherzinger and host Steve Jones.”

Another source tells THR that Pink is high on Cowell’s wish list. The singer, whose real name is Alicia Moore, has credibility, Grammy Awards and sass, plus “she can take on Simon,” the source said. As previously re­ported, Cowell is also interested in Katy Perry, telling Extra, “I worked with Katy once. I think she would be fun because she is hard—in a good way— and she’s feisty.”

As for Ms. Jackson, she was coy on the subject Thursday when pressed about it by Anderson Cooper.

“Oh my God,” the 45-year-old laughed on-air. “No I’m not a judge on The X Factor.’”

“You’re not currently a judge on ‘The X Factor,’” responded Cooper.

“No, I am not,” said Jackson. “But that’s all I really think I should say.”

This article originally published in the February 20, 2012 print edition of The Louisiana Weekly newspaper.