It seems like every day there’s another A-list hat thrown into the ‘X Factor‘ casting ring. Who’s the latest? None other than the “Dutchess” herself, Fergie.

Life & Style reported that the Black Eyed Peas singer was pretty interested in one of the judging spots left open by Paula Abdul and Nicole Scherzinger‘s abrupt exits. A source told the mag: “There have been some conversations. It’s in the early stages, but Fergie’s the one who approached the producers about joining the panel.” The mag also reports that Simon Cowell says he’s seeking a judge who “wants to be on the show and isn’t doing it just for a paycheck.”

So is Fergie signing on? Not quite, though it is true that she was interested in the show. “I know there were talks last season and this season,” Fergie told the Los Angeles Times. “But it’s just not — Simon said before [that] timing is everything and it’s not the right time for me.”

Fergie also made sure to clarify that her decision wasn’t anything against Cowell, whom she adores. “I mean, I love Simon and I love the show. It’s just that last year, nor this year, do I have the time to commit to that sort of commitment because I would be somebody who would really throw myself into it, as I do with all my projects.”

Time will tell who takes the spots, but we’re not holding our breath for big names. After all, Cowell himself said that they don’t need an A-list panel — and he may have set himself up for a self-fulfilling prophecy.

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