Janet Jackson has sparked rumours she is joining the US X Factor.

There has been speculation surrounding who will fill the empty seats on the judging panel of the hit TV talent show. Simon Cowell recently axed Nicole Scherzinger and Paula Abdul along with host Steve Jones in a shocking show shake-up.

While big names such as Mariah Carey and Beyonc Knowles are said to be in the running, Janet has also added fuel to the rumour mill.

The iconic pop songstress appeared caught off guard during an interview with Anderson Cooper, which is set to air on Monday.

Anderson asked if she was joining the judging panel.

"Oh my God," Janet exclaimed, before awkwardly laughing. Later she added: "No I'm not a judge on The X Factor."

Anderson probed more into the situation, asking again: "You're not currently a judge on The X Factor."

"No, I am not, but that's all I really think I should say," she responded, before Anderson added: "Intriguing, I will say. Intriguing."

Meanwhile, it has been reported that Kelly Rowland won't be returning to the British version of The X Factor. The former Destiny's Child singer failed to connect with UK audiences on the show, and now sources say Simon is on the lookout for a new female replacement.

"Kelly has got to go. She was not right for the show," a source told British newspaper The Daily Mail.

"The producers didn't like her and her commitment level wasn't there. There's an understanding she didn't work on the panel."

The American singer also reportedly "annoyed production staff with her diva attitude".

The UK judging panel also consists of Simon, Louis Walsh and Tulisa Contostavlos.