Nicole Scherzinger May Quit As ‘X-Factor’ Judge; Singer Eyes Lead Role In ‘Wicked’ Movie

Nicole Scherzinger has been offered a major role in the movie adaptation of "Wicked." Even though she is yet to official accept the opportunity, it is being said to be the reason she has held off from signing the contract to judge the upcoming season of "X-Factor."

Scherzinger is in talks to play Elphaba, one of the lead roles in the mainstream film adaptation of "Wicked," which could do wonders for the actress' career. However, if she does accept the movie offer, it could also mean that she might be planning to move on from her television gigs, including "X-Factor."

Even though there has been no official confirmation from the former Pussycat Dolls herself, sources have told The Sun that, "She's been eyeing a career in acting for some time now, so playing the lead role in such a popular musical would be a major coup." The role was initially offered to Idina Menzel, who originally played Elphaba on the Broadway stage back in 2003. However, the production team moved on to Scherzinger after Idina refused to reprise the role.

This can certainly be worrisome for "X-Factor" creator Simon Cowell, who was keen on maintaining the same set of judges from the previous season of the show, which garnered impressive ratings. According to the reports, Cowell is yet to get his wish fulfilled since Scherzinger is the only one who has not renewed her contract with the show as of yet.

According to Metro, an insider has claimed that "while Louis [Walsh] and Sharon [Osborne] are all but signed, there's still a question mark over Nicole." It is being speculated that Scherzinger is currently weighing her options before she makes an informed decision.

For now, the future of "X-Factor" hangs in balance as Cowell might end up hunting for Nicole Scherzinger's replacement if she does not renew her contract with the show. The movie adaptation of "Wicked" is set for a 2019 release.