LA Reid is not returning to The X Factor in season 3, according to new reports.

Access Hollywood has confirmed that judge LA Reid is not returning to The X Factor in season 3. Reid, who has been a judge on the American version of the show since its inception last year will be moving on to his day job at Epic Records. Reid had this to say about the depature from the hit reality show series:

“I have the utmost respect for Simon Cowell, he is the very best and I have had the opportunity to learn so much from him. Working with him on X Factor has been a once-in-a-lifetime experience, I’m honored to have sat on the panel with such incredible talent.”

Reid also goes on to say that he will miss his place at the judges table come next season:

“Of course I will miss the show, in my opinion Simon attracts the best talent, but I’m looking forward to getting back to my core business and the responsibility of running Epic Records.”

LA Reid not returning to The X Factor comes as somewhat of a shock seeing as he was the only person who survived the firing of talent after season 1 of the show (which included judges Paula Abdul, Nicole Scherzinger and host Steve Jones).

What are your thoughts on LA Reid not returning to The X Factor in season 3?