Pop star Britney Spears has confirmed reports she is leaving The X Factor after just one season as a judge.

Industry insiders recently suggested the Toxic hitmaker would not be returning to the reality show due to reports producers were less than impressed with her performance alongside fellow mentors Demi Lovato and L.A. Reid and boss Simon Cowell.

And now Spears, who was paid an alleged $15 million to appear on the program, has officially announced her departure, citing her desire to focus on her own music career.

A statement released by the star on Friday (11Jan13) reads: "I’ve made the very difficult decision not to return for another season. I had an incredible time doing the show and I love the other judges... but it’s time for me to get back in the studio.

"Watching them (contestants) all do their thing up on that stage every week made me miss performing so much! I can’t wait to get back out there and do what I love most."

The news comes just one month after music producer Reid decided to leave the hit TV show, and amid reports suggesting Spears is lining up a Las Vegas residency gig.