It’s a given on show like the[lastfm link_type="artist_info"] X-Factor[/lastfm] that the contestants will be eliminated…but the judges?!

Three of the five regular faces are out the door!

Find out who here!

While it had been a rumor since the show wrapped, it is confirmed that host Steve Jones, and judge [lastfm link_type="artist_info"]Nicole Scherzinger[/lastfm] are not returning.

Steve may have been a hit on the British version, but was a big ole snooze in the U.S. Here’s what he tweeted when the news broke:

I wont be hosting next seasons XFactor which is a shame but I cant complain as I’ve had a great time. Good luck to everyone on the show

As for Nicole, I personally think she freaked out when she started getting negative press and fan reaction for not saving contestant [lastfm link_type="artist_info"]Rachel Crow[/lastfm], but is said to be leaving to “work on music,” and has “Simon’s blessing”

But the BIGGEST shock is that [lastfm link_type="artist_info"]Paula Abdul [/lastfm]is said to not be returning either! FOX has not confirmed if it’s true.

I think Paula did well on the show, but will probably try her luck at her own dance show again (just like she did on[lastfm link_type="artist_info"] American Idol[/lastfm])  (We all know how that will end) so if she really IS leaving, I think she’ll be back.

Do you think with just [lastfm link_type="artist_info"]L.A. Reid[/lastfm] and Simon Cowell returning (and 3 new faces) that the show will lose fans?

I think if they really do have [lastfm link_type="artist_info"]Mariah Carey[/lastfm] joining them at the judge’s table – people won’t even realize they’re gone! Plus, with 3 extra salaries they can probably afford to pay her now! LOL