Britney Spears Offered $10 Million to Join Cowell's 'X Factor'

After "X Factor"'s ratings missed an expected mark in the show’s first season, Simon Cowell began knocking on some doors.

According to Deadline Hollywood, Britney Spears was offered $10 million to take up a judging gig on the show. The Hollywood Reporter says the pop star’s fiancé/agent, Jason Trawick, could close a deal as early as next week.

Up to this point, Cowell’s been pretty hush-hush regarding details surrounding the deal, vaguely saying during a recent conference call, “Are we flattered there would be interest from Britney Spears? Yes.” During a later radio interview with Billy Bush, however, he did reveal a “fascination” with Spears and why he feels she’d be fit for the part.

"The fact that she’s one of the most talked about — not just pop stars but people — in the world today, means that you’ve got this star power," Cowell said.

"This girl has resilience. I would think that if she’s managed to sustain a family, a career, which is tough, ["X Factor" would be] a walk in the park. I would be fascinated to hear what she has to say. She’s still hot, she’s still having hit records and she’s still controversial. There’s a reason for that."

Other considered candidates include Mariah Carey and Janet Jackson, who, while flattered by the offer, had to turn it down due to other commitments. – Stephanie Long