Kelly Rowland rules out X Factor return

Rowland was one of three new judges to join The X Factor for its 2011 series

Former Destiny's Child singer Kelly Rowland will not return as an X Factor judge when the show resumes later this year, her spokesperson has confirmed.

"Kelly has not been able to agree a deal that fits into her autumn/winter schedule so sadly cannot accept a place on the 2012 panel," they said.

The US singer said being a mentor on the ITV1 show had been "an incredible experience" and a "great opportunity".

Take That star Gary Barlow recently confirmed that he would return.

It is not yet known whether Tulisa Contostavlos and Louis Walsh will join him on the panel.

Rowland's representatives cited "global commitments", "scheduling issues" and the show's "increasing demands" among the reasons for her departure.

Some tabloid newspapers had speculated that the 31-year-old's remuneration had also proved a sticking point.

An X Factor spokesperson said the line-up would be announced "in due course".

"Kelly's immense experience in the music industry shone through in both her judging and mentoring on The X Factor," the spokesperson continued.

"We would like to thank her for being a part of the country's number one show and wish her well for the future."

The first X Factor auditions in front of the judges are scheduled to take place in Liverpool on 23 May.

Simon Cowell was absent from the judging panel for the first time last year as he concentrated on launching a US version of the show.