The man with the plan for this years’ Olds Over 25ers on The X Factor has thought up a new strategy for himself: and it involves leaving his position as judge on the singing series, Hollywood.com has confirmed.
Speaking with Access Hollywood, L.A. Reid explains his decision to leave as simple: “I have a company to run that I’ve kind of neglected.” Reid is a bigwig in the music industry, as the CEO and Chairman of Epic Records and also a key figure in discovering/fostering the talent of some of music’s biggest stars: including Justin Bieber, Usher, TLC, OutKast, Pink, and many, many, many (seriously, this guy is sort of a big deal in the ‘biz) more.
And it’s his current roster of artists that are forcing his hand: “I have a huge responsibility to a roster of artists and it’s kind of time for me to stop doing the ‘me’ show,” he explained. That said, it’s not all sadness for Reid, who explains he had a great time on the show, and has no hard feelings towards anyone, including the notorious grumpasaurus that is judge/creator Simon Cowell.
Reid isn’t leaving without at least trying to help fill his seat, though—he’s already declared that Bon Jovi frontman Jon Bon Jovi would be his successor of choice, saying “that’s who I would pick.” As for X Factor parent, FOX? They have no comment on Reid’s choice to depart.
Hollywood.com has reached out for comment from Reid, but did not hear back at the time of publication. Are you surprised at the news of Reid’s departure from the series? Think you know the perfect person to replace him? Let us know in the comments!
[Photo Credit: Chris Pizzello/AP Photo]
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