Simon Cowell and Cheryl Cole publicized their friendship on the hit show "X-Factor". Their witty banter became a staple to the show and the pair appeared to be genuine friends. However, when Cowell abruptly fired Cole this damaged their friendship. Cowell has admitted that he has not spoken to the star for over six months. When confronted with rumors as to whether or not she will be returning as a guest to the show Cowell laughed the comment off saying it was "bulls**t."

Cheryl is not returning to the 'X-Factor'

Simon Cowell and Cheryl Cole had a falling out in which Cole criticized Simon for not firing her to her face.

According to the Daily Mail, Cole told Simon that she hated him and their relationship has been rocky ever since. Fans have assumed that Cole will be returning as a judge on this year "X-Factor". Rumors have been circulating that Cole will be receiving a huge paycheck of up to £500,000. Cowell was quick to dismiss these rumors stating that he had not talked to Cheryl in over six months.

Cowell slammed these claims and coyly stated that Cheryl was a lot of drama to deal with. According to the Mirror, Cowell has stated that judge Mel B. is a lot less drama and simply deals with her problems with a level head. Fans are confused as to why Cowell is comparing the two judges as he takes a subtle jab at Cole.

The 57-year-old judge has confirmed that this year's panel will consist of himself, Nicole Scherzinger, Louise Walsh and Sharon Osbourne. Alesha Dizon has also been filling in as a guest judge.

Cole has mentored previous winners

The decision not to invite Cheryl back to the "X-Factor has caused some controversy among fans. Cole is clearly a fan favorite and with her recent fame of being a new mother, the hype surrounding the star has never been higher.

Cheryl has a strong history with the "X-Factor" and has mentored such singers as Alexandra Burke and Joe McElderry.

It appears that Louise Walsh is taking Cheryl's role as a judge in this year's "X-Factor". This decision is strange, to say the least, as Walsh has always been kind and added an air of fluff to the show. Cowell could have made this decision to keep the show fresh by circulating judges.

There has been no comment from either Simon Cowell or Cheryl Cole about the nature of the pair's relationship now. However, Cowell stated he congratulated Cole on the birth of her son Bear. It appears that the pair is civil at least. The star's representatives have been contacted for further comment.