U.K. 'X Factor' loses judge Dannii Minogue

LONDON, May 15 (UPI) -- Australian singer Dannii Minogue says she is quitting her gig as a judge on the British television talent show "X Factor" due to scheduling conflicts.

Minogue said in a written statement the schedule for the new season of "The X Factor" conflicts with her previous commitments to the judging panel on the similar series "Australia's Got Talent."

"During discussions for me to return (to 'The X Factor') it became clear that unfortunately, this year, the 'X Factor' audition dates in the U.K. clash with the live shows of 'Australia's Got Talent' during June and July," Minogue said. "For this reason I am unable to return."

The BBC said Sunday that Minogue's departure leaves an opening on the panel that is complicated by the move of Cheryl Cole and Simon Cowell to the judges' table on the U.S. version of the show.

Among the possible replacements mentioned are rocker Ozzy Osbourne, Lily Allen and Louis Walsh, the BBC said.