(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Cheryl Cole is reportedly "shocked and stunned" after being replaced on US X Factor.
The British pop star had begun work on the audition process alongside Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul and L.A. Reid as they searched for talent to appear in the new American edition of the music competition.
However, reports earlier this week emerged suggesting show bosses had decided to replace her with former Pussycat Doll Nicole Scherzinger due to worries about her regional British accent and a lack of chemistry between the judges.
Although there has been no official word from Cheryl or her representatives, sources close to the star have revealed how surprised she is.
"She is completely shocked and stunned. She never saw this coming at all," a friend of the star is quoted as saying in British newspaper The Sun.
There are conflicting reports as to whether music mogul Simon, who worked with Cheryl on the UK edition of the programme for three years, told her about the decision himself.
"The fact that Simon didn't tell her in person hurt. She never thought he would do that to her," says one friend.
Although a source from Simon's camp has claimed the opposite.
"Cheryl can hardly say this was a total shock. She actually knew about it three days ago," explained the source.
"Simon told her in person at his house that it wasn't working and that he was under so much pressure to release her."
There have also been suggestions that Cheryl has been invited to return to her role as a judge on the UK's X Factor. However, it is thought the singer isn't keen on the idea.
"I've been hung out to dry, and I know who's to blame. I've had no opportunity whatsoever to prove myself and instead they've just cast me aside like a fool," she is quoted as saying to a friend in British newspaper The Daily Mirror.
"Cheryl's not stupid. She knows this is a kick in the teeth no matter what spin Cowell comes up with. She's so upset she's not even sure she wants to do the UK version. Little wonder after the way she's been treated," added a source. (C) Cover Media