As The X Factor concept reaches its 10th anniversary (and the New Zealand show Popstars, the grand-daddy of them all, turns 14), the American spin-off seems to have had a hard time holding on to its judges.
   Or, if certain sources are to be believed, reactionary powers-that-be aren’t too happy with show supremo Simon Cowell’s choices, and pushed some of its big names off the show when ratings didn’t jump as they had hoped.
   First it was Cheryl Cole out the door, and now Britney Spears has announced she’s leaving the show after one season as a judge.
   Not only is Spears leaving The X Factor USA, she’s decided to call off her engagement to Jason Trawick, in a statement released by her people to People.
   Spears said in the statement, ‘Jason and I have decided to call off our engagement. I’ll always adore him and we will remain great friends.’
   Trawick stated, ‘As this chapter ends for us a new one begins. I love and cherish her and her boys and we will be close forever.’
   In a separate statement regarding her departure from The X Factor USA, Spears said, ‘I’ve made the very difficult decision not to return for another season.
   ‘I had an incredible time doing the show and I love the other judges and I am so proud of my teens, but it’s time for me to get back in the studio.
   ‘Watching them all do their thing up on that stage every week made me miss performing so much! I can’t wait to get back out there and do what I love most.’
   Spears was reportedly offered US$15 million to join the talent show, which had been created by Cowell.
   Her engagement was originally announced after Trawick’s 40th birthday in December 2011.