Ex-X Factor? Is Nicole Scherzinger Quitting To Concentrate On Music & Acting Career?
Dec. 23 2011, Published 3:30 p.m. ET
Nicole Scherzinger is fueling rumors that she won’t be returning to X Factor by saying she plans on focusing on her music next year, something she didn’t have time to do while filming the hit show.
In an exclusive interview with RadarOnline.com, Nicole danced around the question when asked if she’ll be returning next season.
“Next year for me, it’s about my music,” Scherzinger said. “This has been quite a learning experience, quite a journey for me. I didn’t expect to have been so emotional through the whole elimination process. I wanted to just mentor and empower artists.”
The singer blames her hectic work schedule on X Factor for the delay of her album release.
“The reason it hasn’t come out yet is because of The X Factor,” Nicole said. “It’s been so time consuming. I work with these contestants six days a week. So I delayed the album, but I was able to perform one of my new singles last week.”
Nicole also shared that she found it hard to be on the other side of the stage, and claimed she identifies more with being an artist than a judge.
“I’m used to being on stage and performing and singing for people and people cheering for me,” Scherzinger said. “I am an artist first, not a judge first!”
Nicole struggled with her emotions during X Factor and found herself in tears during many episodes.
“The elimination process for me has been very difficult,” Nicole said. “I definitely took the cake this year for crying – I think I got 25 strong points on that!”
Nicole filmed Men in Black III earlier in the year with Will Smith and said she definitely wants to pursue more acting roles in the future.
“I really want to find the right roles and the right opportunities in acting,” Nicole said. “Theater is actually what I studied in college.”
RELATED STORIES:
Melanie Amaro Wins The X Factor
The Heartbreak Behind X Factor Star Josh Krajcik’s Dedication To His Daughter