Mario Lopez, host of the nightly entertainment news show “Extra,” is expected to be named the new host of Simon Cowell’s “X Factor” — and it may be as soon as this weekend.
He will pair up with Khloe Kardashian — an emceeing odd couple — when ”X Factor” begins live shows next month, according to sources.
Cowell has a longtime relationship with “Extra” — starting with his ex-girlfriend, Terri Seymour, who is a correspondent on the hit show.
And, while Cowell has been saying he expected to name two “inexperienced” hosts this season, he has elected at the last minute to pick at least one who is an established TV-traffic cop.
Lopez, 38, will keep his job on “Extra” — which tapes at LA’s The Grove, a sprawling shopping mall, located next door to the studios where “X Factor” originates.
The talent show has gone without a Ryan Seacrest-type figure since the new season started last week.
Kardashian — who is new to the rigors of hosting — and Lopez have about a month to practice together before they make their live debut, sources indicated.
They are replacing Steve Jones, a Welsh TV announcer brought over from Britain last year, who was let go last winter when Cowell shook up the cast following a lackluster debut season.