George Michael Set To Judge Simon Cowell’s American ‘X Factor’?

Will troubled pop vet George Michael be a judge on Simon Cowell‘s talent show X Factor when it arrives in the U.S. next fall? That’s what The Sun is reporting today (December 16).

The paper’s source said: “George is going to take the job. It’s an amazing opportunity to get back in the limelight and reverse his recent bad spell. Simon knows that Americans love him. He is as big in the US as he is over here.

“He is a true star and has the wit and experience for the job. It’s the perfect platform to resurrect his career.”

Reports have been circulating recently that Cowell has been pitching a comeback for Michael. And man, he could use one right about now. The former Wham! heartthrob has endured a cringe-worthy 2010: he notoriously spent time in the slammer for crashing his Range Rover into a London photo shop.

Michael could conceivably join a panel comprised of Cowell and UK pop star Cheryl Cole, making the show an all-British affair. (Rockers Mick Jagger and Noel Gallagher have also been pegged as possible U.S. X Factor judges.) Unlike Ms. Cole, whom Cowell is potentially taking a huge gamble on, George Michael is an icon here. (He logged eight No. 1 singles in his stateside heyday, plus two with Wham!)  His return to American shores would be a delicious turn of events indeed.

In spite of The Sun’s report, there has been no confirmation from Cowell or Michael. But you Angelenos out in Cali, maybe it’s time to brush up on your defensive driving…

What do you think about George Michael joining the U.S. X Factor?