After months of speculation and negotiating, Paula Abdul has finally signed on to be a judge opposite her former American Idol co-hort, Simon Cowell, on the American version of his British show, The X Factor. Abdul completes the judging panel, which includes British singer Cheryl Cole and former music executive Antonio Reid. “This show would never have been the same without Paula and I can’t believe I am saying this — I have missed her a lot, and I am thrilled she’s on the show,” Cowell said in a statement. Abdul added: “I am excited beyond words to be a part of The X Factor. I couldn’t be happier to bring my love for cultivating talent and performance to such a wildly anticipated show. [I] know that it will be an extraordinary journey — we’re going to have a blast. I’m also delighted and grateful to be sitting next to Simon again … but you might want to check back with me in a week or two!” The winner of The X Factor will receive $5 million.