Steve Jones (um, who?) and Nicole Scherzinger will host Simon Cowell's U.S. version of "The X Factor," Fox announced.
The Associated Press, meanwhile, reports that Paula Abdul, Cowell's unpredictable foil on "American Idol," had also joined, citing an anonymous source.
update Sunday: a Fox spokesman would not validate the AP report, saying, "Can't confirm yet."
Jones, a British TV personality little known in the U.S., and Scherzinger, the former Pussycat Dolls lead singer and solo artist, were expected to join the singing competition Sunday, when the judges kick off their talent search in Los Angeles.
"These two are going to be great together," Cowell said. "I have always wanted Steve to work with us; I think he is a real star. Nicole is fantastic. I loved working with her on the U.K. ‘X Factor’ last year. She is gorgeous and super-talented."
Jones and Scherzinger join previously announced judges Cowell, Cheryl Cole, and Antonio "L.A." Reid. The show debuts in September.
