Britney Spears X Factor Departure Confirmed, Singer Quits Before Rumored Firing; Spears Issues Statement

The era of Britney Spears on "The X Factor" is over, lasting only a year.

The Simon Cowell produced music reality show signed Spears to a one-year contract last year in a deal worth reportedly $15 million dollars. Spears debuted as a new judge, along with Demi Lovato, to replace the departing Paula Abdul and Nicole Scherzinger.

One season appears to be enough for Spears who has confirmed her departure.

"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," Spears said in a statement. "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."

Her departure comes after Fox Entertainment Chairman Kevin Reilly told reporters at the TV press tour in California about his view on Spears on "The X Factor."

"I thought it went very well. People are fascinated with her and always will be," said Reilly. "She's just an interesting figure who's lived a unique life, and I thought she brought some of that. And people got to know her a little bit."

Reilly added, "Maybe some people were waiting for more drastic displays - those did not happen. The ratings were higher last year, but I think the show was better [this season]. She fit in on that panel nicely."

Reilly's comments appear to not be enough to sway Spears to stay.

Her departure comes after rumors circulated she was set to be fired. According to Us Weekly, Spears will get the boot as an insider said, "Producers wanted her for the long haul, but it isn't working." Us Weekly's source added, "[Simon Cowell] wanted crazy Britney, but he got boring Britney."

Spears is the second judge to confirm their departure after the latest season as L.A. Reid confirmed he's not returning for a third season.

The status of Lovato is still unknown, she tweeted before the season two finale that she was "thankful for this experience I've had on The X Factor USA this year." She added, "I'm really really really gonna miss working with @LA_Reid. So many laughs and inside jokes. Truly blessed to know you LA. Love you so much." In regards to Spears, Demi tweeted: "Also I'm going to miss sitting next to the STUNNING, gorgeous and down-to-earth sweetheart @britneyspears...Britney...I'm gonna miss you."

A representative for Demi told GossipCop that the tweets are not an indication of her departure but simply stating a goodbye for the season.

Co-host Mario Lopez also stated he hopes to return to the show and has no idea what the plans are for next year. Lopez told Life & Style, "I would love to [come back. I had a great time this season. It was awesome. It went by really quick."