Antonio “L.A.” Reid, former Chairman of Island Def Jam Music Group and one of the most influential names in music today, will join Simon Cowell on the judging panel of THE X FACTOR, the highly anticipated singing competition series debuting this fall on FOX.

Throughout his career, Reid has launched some of the biggest acts in music, including Jay-Z, Mariah Carey, Justin Bieber, Kanye West, The Killers, Bon Jovi, Pink, Usher, Jennifer Lopez and Rihanna. With a diverse roster of talent, 33 No. 1 hits and three Grammy Awards, Reid is one of the industry’s most respected and successful executives, as well as one of the most talented, creative and formidable forces in music.

“I am proud to stand next to my dear friend Simon Cowell, one of the world’s most gifted and charismatic talent magnets,” said Reid. “THE X FACTOR provides an extraordinary opportunity for aspiring artists of every age and genre to showcase their unique talents. I truly look forward to discovering our next generation of superstars.”

“L.A. was my number one choice to sit alongside me on the show.  In my opinion, he is one of the greatest ever music executives and of course a fantastic writer and producer.
I am thrilled he has agreed to join the show, and for any artist auditioning, they know they have the chance to meet a true star-maker,” said Simon Cowell.

“L.A. Reid is one of the most celebrated music producers and songwriters of our time and knows exactly what it takes to find and nurture a global superstar,” said Mike Darnell, President of Alternative Entertainment, Fox Broadcasting Company. “Not only does he have an insanely good eye for talent, but he also has the personality and savvy to go toe-to-toe with Simon Cowell, so I can’t wait to see those two music moguls together at THE X FACTOR judges’ table.”

“L.A. Reid’s renowned expertise in recognizing, producing and marketing musical talent is synonymous with some of the most successful recording artists in the history of modern music,” said executive producer Cecile Frot-Coutaz. “I am thrilled to have him judging on THE X FACTOR and look forward to seeing him apply his amazing experience and track record in the mentoring of one of our categories.”

Auditions for the highly anticipated singing competition THE X FACTOR are set to begin on Sunday, March 27 in Los Angeles at the L.A. Sports Arena. The search for the next global superstar will continue in Miami, FL, on Thursday, April 7; Newark, NJ, on Thursday, April 14; Seattle, WA, on Wednesday, April 20; Chicago, IL, on Wednesday, April 27; and Dallas, TX, on Thursday, May 26.

The show is searching for undiscovered talent 12 years old or over – both solo artists and vocal groups – who are willing to brave the panel for a chance to win a $5 million recording contract with Syco/Sony Music.  Interested solo artists and vocal groups should sign up now for audition information at www.fox.com/theXfactor or call toll-free 855-345-5678.

THE X FACTOR host and additional judges to be announced.

In a departure from other singing competition series, the first time a contestant auditions for THE X FACTOR judges, he/she will do so in front of an audience of thousands – raising the stakes and increasing the pressure to impress not only the judges, but also a potential legion of fans. This will be the ultimate test to prove they have the vocal ability, charisma and stage presence that it takes to become a global superstar and win an unprecedented $5 million recording contract with Syco/Sony Music.