Sharon Osbourne has reportedly been axed from ‘The X Factor’ after slating the show and its producer Simon Cowell.

Earlier this month, she gave an interview to Howard Stern during which she targeted the "little shit" singers as well as "f**king pain in the arse" and "fat-faced f**k" Simon Cowell.

Asked why she's only judging the live shows this year and not from the auditions stage, Osbourne joked to Stern that she couldn't stand the amateur contestants anymore, saying: "Oh f**k, I don't have to have those kids singing in my face.

"They all suck. It is like, 'Hey, is this f**king karaoke or what?'"

It would now appear that Osbourne will not be returning to judge the live shows at all.

A source told ‘The Irish Sun’: “Sharon is going to try and spin this as her choice to leave, but after that disgusting interview there was no way Simon Cowell or the executives would have her back on the panel.

“Not only did she make shocking attacks on him, she slagged off the show itself and the lovely members of the public who decide to audition. Good riddance to her.”

A statement from an X Factor spokesperson emphasised that it was Sharon’s decision to leave, reading: "The X Factor can confirm Sharon Osbourne has decided not to return to this year's show.

"Sharon will always be a big part of The X Factor family and we wish her all the best for the future."

Sharon said in her own statement: "After watching the new season X Factor unfold, I've seen the new judges finding their rhythm and are doing brilliantly.

"Simon was so gracious to find me a spot on the live shows but at this point I really don't think I'm needed and I would honestly feel odd coming in at this point. So I have decided to pass on the series this year.

"I wish the show continued success and as much as I love to get my face on TV you will have to do without me this season. Loves ya, Mrs. O."

There’ll be plenty of drama without her anyway, if last night’s ‘six chair-challenge’ is anything to go by.