Report: Cowell picks producer Reid as US 'X Factor' judge

Simon Cowell has appointed Def Jam chairman Antonio 'L.A.' Reid as the first 'X Factor' judge.

The 54-year-old music producer – who has helped launch the careers of the likes of Rihanna, Kanye West, Justin Bieber, Pink and Mariah Carey – will reportedly take up a place on the judging panel alongside Simon and two more yet-to-be revealed stars when the first round of auditions begin in two weeks.