I liked Nicole more & that's not just me being biased. She seemed more involved, taking notes, speaking to the contestants, dancing & waving her hand, and she had more chemistry with Paula, whereas Cheryl just sat there, looked hot, recycled the same lines she's always said & tried to steal Paula's seat
I agree with the critics in preferring Cheryl to Nicole, and that's coming from someone who loves both girls. Nicole just seemed so much more co-dependent and resigned to playing second fiddle to Paula and Simon. Cheryl actually had a presence herself that demanded attention. I think the producers made a huge mistake.