The “X Factor’s” resident sweetheart, Demi Lovato, confirmed she is leaving the hit show to return to her “roots.”
Interviewed after Wednesday night’s performance show, the 21-year-old singer-actress said she plans to devote next year to touring and working on new songs.
“I started the show being a singer and a musician, and so I’m going to go back to that,” Lovato told reporters. “It’s been really great, but I’m excited for 2014. I’m going to dedicate it completely and entirely to music – touring and making a new album. Possibly releasing one.”
The news of the singer’s imminent departure was first reported by People, a source telling the magazine that Lovato “had a great run and a good time,” but that the show’s demanding schedule conflicts with her plans next year.
The “Neon Lights” singer has served as a judge on the show for two seasons, joining show producer Simon Cowell, fellow pop singer Paulina Rubio and former Destiny’s Child singer Kelly Roland this season. She is about to headline her first arena tour, kicking off Feb. 9 in Vancouver.
Her tour will also feature “X Factor” alumni Cher Lloyd, Little Mix and Fifth Harmony.
On Wednesday, Lovato also spoke about what she would miss most about her time on the show: “Being able to sit next to Kelly (Rowland) and Paulina (Rubio) and see them twice a week, and also helping mentor the contestants.”
Cowell, who is confident the show will return for a fourth season and previously stated he is looking to shake things up including the judges’ panel, said working with Lovato has been “fun” and the timing is right for something new. He would not comment on potential replacements for Lovato.
“I always knew she wasn’t coming back because she’s touring, so I knew that,” he said.
Lovato’s departure from “X Factor” may not come as a surprise to many fans as the singer previously stated that while acting and being on TV is a lot of fun, singing has always been her top passion.
In November, Lovato, also guest starred on “Glee” this season playing a love interest to Naya Rivera’s character, said it has been difficult to be in front of the camera, especially since receiving treatment for bulimia and anorexia.
“It is still hard being in front of the camera when you have suffered from eating disorders, and I still don’t watch my episodes. It is hard,” Lovato said at the time.
Fans will have one more day to see Lovato on “X Factor” when the season three winner is announced after Thursday’s finale. Vying for the top spot are rocker Jeff Gutt, boyfriend-girlfriend duo Alex and Sienna and pop singer Carlito Olivero.
The show, which includes a performance by "Glee" star Lea Michele, airs Thursday night at 8:00 p.m. EST on FOX.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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