X FACTOR Judge Simon Cowell Admits Regret Over Paula Abdul Firing

In an exclusive interview with Extra TV, the X FACTOR's Simon Cowell broke his silence for the first time regarding the recent firing of judges and host from the Fox singing competition.  

In the interview, Cowell reveals that he has regrets that his friend and fellow American Idol judge Paula Abdul was let go from the show. Admitted Cowell, "I would've liked to have kept her. She was very gracious and I said that to her. She understands it's business; it's never personal."

As far as losing Scherzinger, Cowell comments, "I don't think she's mad. I think she's disappointed." On keeping L.A. Reid on board, he added, "There's not a record executive out there who is as good as him for the job."

Cowell also revealed that he was sorry for setting expectations so high for the series. "It's only because I opened my big mouth and said we were going to get 20 million [viewers]. If I hadn't said that, everybody would be saying the show was a huge success."

The big question remains as to who will be filling the now empty judge's seats when the show returns for its second season. Regarding rumors that Beyonce could come on board, Cowell said, "I have no idea where this rumor came from. I read it online that I offered her $100 million a year. It's complete nonsense."