Antonio 'L.A.' Reid to be 'X Factor' judge

A day after leaving his post as chairman of Island Def Jam Music Group, Antonio "L.A." Reid is officially joining Simon Cowell's "The X Factor" as a judge.

“L.A. was my number one choice to sit alongside me on the show," Cowell is quoted as saying in a press release announcing the move. "In my opinion, he is one of the greatest ever music executives and of course a fantastic writer and producer. I am thrilled he has agreed to join the show, and for any artist auditioning, they know they have the chance to meet a true star-maker."

Reid is an industry impresario whose former record label, LaFace, launched several major artists, including TLC, Usher and Pink. Speculation that Reid would be joining "X Factor" was rampant this week, particularly after he announced his resignation.

“I am proud to stand next to my dear friend Simon Cowell, one of the world’s most gifted and charismatic talent magnets,” Reid said in the press release. “'The X Factor' provides an extraordinary opportunity for aspiring artists of every age and genre to showcase their unique talents. I truly look forward to discovering our next generation of superstars.”

The show has been highly anticipated ever since Cowell announced he would be leaving his role as a judge on "American Idol" to helm his new program. Auditions begin on March 27 at the Los Angeles Sports Arena.