Fox has been informed of Spears' decision, her publicist, Jeff Raymond said Friday. Fox spokeswoman Gaude Paez confirmed that Spears is leaving the show and said the network had no further statement.
Cowell and fellow producers are discussing replacements for Spears and Reid and will be conferring with Fox, said a person who is familiar with the situation but lacked authority to comment publicly and insisted on anonymity.
Demi Lovato is expected to return as a panellist, joining Cowell and the newcomers.
Spears, 31, said she was proud of the young X Factor contestants she helped counsel, but that watching them on stage each week made her miss performing.
I think (and hope ) that her mentoring will be better this season. I believe she has learned a lot last season
Her judging was definitely great, and she's been praised by many for it. I don't feel like that needs improving, as especially the last half of the liveshows she was great.
I believe Demi was bringing a lot of freshness and youth to the show so it's great if she'd stay
) that her mentoring will be better this season. I believe she has learned a lot last season 
