Cheryl Cole grabbing Simon Cowell's throat (c) Instagram
Cheryl Cole is "very happy and excited" about returning to 'The X Factor' later this year.
The 30-year-old star will reclaim her role as a judge on the ITV talent show for its twelfth series later this year, after confirming the rumours on her Instagram account, and she's now spoken out about her long awaited return.
She said: "I'm very happy and excited to be returning to The X Factor. I'm inspired and ready to find new talent and potential pop stars. It's going to be a fun series."
The 'Call My Name' hitmaker - who led Alexandra Burke and Joe McElderry to victory in 2008 and 2009 respectively - left the show in 2010 to judge on the US version alongside Simon Cowell, but after she failed to impress American audiences she was axed and had a public falling out with the media mogul.
Simon - who is also returning as a judge later this year - made no secret of the fact he wanted the brunette beauty back and is thrilled she's now agreed to return.
He said: "I am so happy that Cheryl has agreed to join The X Factor again. The last time we worked together in the UK was incredible and produced some really successful artists. Obviously the plan is to do the same again... so it's back to work!"
It has so far not been confirmed as to who will take up the remaining two judges seats but the new series is set to return later this year.
Tagged in Alexandra Burke Cheryl Cole Simon Cowell