It's official!

After months of rumor and speculation, Britney Spears has signed up to be a judge on the U.S. version of "The X Factor."

SOUNDBITE: Simon Cowell, X Factor creator and judge, saying (English):

"This has taken a year to get where we got to today and I am thrilled to be able to confirm as you can see the return of L.A. Reid, the addition of Demi Lovato and the superstar Britney Spears."

The new judges made their first public appearance at U.S. network Fox's upfront presentation , where new shows are presented to television advertisers.

Spears said she is thrilled about her new job.

SOUNDBITE: Britney Spears, X Factor judge, saying (English):

"I am so excited about this whole experience, it's going to be so much fun and so different from anything I've ever done - and I'm ready to find the true star."

Fox has given no details but Spears has been widely reported to be getting $15 million USD a year for her new gig, which would make her one of the highest-paid TV reality show judges.

Former judges Paula Abdul and Nicole Scherzinger and host Steve Jones were ousted last year after low ratings.

Alicia Powell, Reuters.