X Factor Shake Up: Steve Jones Out as Host!

Tweets that he will not be returning for the show's second season, saying, "I can't complain as I've had a great time."

By Tierney Bricker Jan 31, 2012 1:24 AMTags
THE X FACTOR, Steve JonesRay Mickshaw / FOX

Casting Call Alert: TV host needed for Fox's hit show The X Factor!

After The X Factor crowned Melanie Amaro the winner of the reality competition's first season, speculation immediately began about whether the judging panel and host of the show would be returning for season two. 

Now, we've finally learned the fate of host Steve Jones: He will not be returning to The X Factor. So what happened?

Jones took to his Twitter account to confirm rumors of his exit from The X Factor.

"I won't be hosting next seasons X Factor which is a shame but I can't complain as I've had a great time," Jones writes. "Good luck to everyone on the show."

A Fox rep confirms to E! that "Steve is not returning."

Jones' manager John Ferriter tells E!, " "It's totally amicable. Steve loved doing the show and loved the cast and crew, Fremantle and Fox. Wishes everyone well. This is just the  beginning." 

Earlier this month at TCA, Fox boss Kevin Reilly briefly spoke about Jones' future on the show. "The only thing I'll say is [hosting] is a much harder job than meets the eye," he said at the time. "Everyone has come to realize the value of a Ryan Seacrest." 

Reports of Jones' exit from the show began in December, but were dismissed by Jones' reps. 

No word yet on whether judge Nicole Scherzinger, who had difficulty eliminating contestants, will be returning for season two. 

In December, Scherzinger addressed the issue, saying, "For me what's important is to live in the moment. I've put my heart and my soul and passion—I put a thousand percent into this year. So, I'm just going to focus on making sure I do a really good job with Josh here this week and only God knows what will happen next year."

Are you sad to see Jones leave the show, X Factor fans? Are you shocked by his exit or did you expect it? Who would you like to see host the show in season two? Sound off in the comments!

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