The X Factor Has Been Canceled By FOX After Three Seasons

After three seasons on FOX, The X Factor has been canceled.

On Fri, Feb. 7, Simon Cowell announced that he would be leaving the series to return to the UK where he would appear as judge on The X Factor UK. Hours later, the network released a statement, saying that if Cowell was gone, they no longer had a show.

"I've had a fantastic time over the last 12 years, both on The X Factor and American Idol," Cowell's announcement read, "and apart from being lucky enough to find some amazing talent on the shows, I have always had an incredible welcome from the American public (most of the time!). I also want to thank everybody who has supported my shoes. America, I'll see you soon!"

Cowell's revelation came on the heels of the news that Demi Lovato would not be returning for a potential fourth season. "She has a great time but she's going to focus on her music next year," a source told Us Weekly on Dec. 18, 2013.

Following Cowell's announcement, FOX's Chairman of Entertainment, Kevin Reilly, released a statement, confirming the series would not be returning for a season four.

"Unfortunately, there is no X Factor USA without Simon Cowell," Reilly said in the statement. "But we understand and support his decision to focus on the international formats and on the next phase of his personal life. We wish him the very best, and it's our sincere hope that we work together again soon."

Since premiering to big numbers in Sept. 2011, The X Factor has been on a steady decline. While the finale performance episode of season one pulled in 12.67 million viewers, season one's finale captured just 5.04 million viewers.

In addition to joining The X Factor UK, Cowell also has exciting things happening in his personal life. Any day now, Cowell's girlfriend, Lauren Silverman, will be welcoming their first child together.