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The X Factor judge replaces singer Brandy on the second season of the NBC show, which ranked as the top-rated new series in the US last summer. She will continue to work on X Factor alongside her new role.
Other judges include sacked Daily Mirror editor Piers Morgan and Baywatch star David Hasselhoff, while Jerry Springer serves as host.
"Sharon Osbourne is showbiz personified and she has seen and done it all," said Craig Plestis, evp of reality at NBC. "She will make an excellent fit with David and Piers, who we're delighted to have back for another season."
"On this show, it just had to be Sharon Osbourne," added Cowell.
Cowell, who created the format, will appear alongside Morgan and Amanda Holden in a UK version of the show - Britain's Got Talent - for ITV this summer. He is unable to judge on the US show because he is locked into an exclusive deal with American Idol broadcaster FOX.
