Cheryl Cole's BFF Will.i.am has revealed that the 28-year-old singer would not return to judge 'X Factor'.

Having helped her find her way after her 'X Factor USA' sacking, the hip-hop star appears to have confirmed that the former wife of Chelsea footballer Ashley Cole, will not be returning to the British version of the show.

Simon Cowell reportedly wanted the Girls Aloud star to return to the judges' panel when the talent show returns later this year.

But will.i.am, whose real name is William Adams said that the show doesn't figure in the plans he has for Cheryl's future.

"Why does she need it?" the Daily Mail quoted him as telling the Mirror.

"Why are you going to make someone-else rich?

"Cheryl needs her own show," he said.

The rapper added that she was the only one on the panel that had the experience of knowing what it was like to be a contestant, having won Popstars with Girls Aloud in 2002.

Will.i.am has been instrumental in helping Cheryl find her feet again and has worked with her on her upcoming third album. (ANI)