Spears closed her deal back in April, for a reported $15 million. This was $3 more than the $12 million that was paid to Jennifer Lopez for "American Idol" last season. Miley Cyrus was rumored to be a contender for the vacant judge spot, but supposedly the star turned the offer down. Lovato was the other celebrity name thrown around to fill the job.
Simon Cowell commented about snagging Britney Spears saying, "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. 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."
