LOS ANGELES — Britney Spears wants to join Simon Cowell as a judge on “The X Factor.”
The 30-year-old “Toxic” star sees the second series of the hit FOX TV talent show as a perfect way to show fans she has put her troubles behind her.
Cowell is replacing fired Nicole Scherzinger and Paula Abdul. Britney is in the running with Janet Jackson, Pink and Mariah Carey to replace them.
A friend of Spears said, “She’s a huge fan of ‘The X Factor’ and thinks it’s the perfect time for her to be a judge. She wants to show her fans she is back to her best and where better to do that than on national TV every week?”
The pal added, “She knows all about the ups and downs of pop fame. And with her schedule relatively clear she has the time to dedicate to a different project.”
Cowell, 52, is still locked in discussions with producers and FOX over who will be offered the two vacant positions.
A music industry insider said, “Britney has had a tough few years but this would put her back at the very top. She would be great for the show and it could be great for her.”
Judging spots can be huge earners. Jennifer Lopez is believed to get around $12 million a season for “American Idol,” while Christina Aguilera is reported to have agreed a $9.5 million deal to mentor on “The Voice.”
The insider insisted, “In terms of excitement and intrigue Britney would top them all.”
Mom-of-two Spears suffered an infamous public meltdown in 2007. But she recently got engaged to former manager Jason Trawick, 40, and has been praised for regaining control of her life.
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