Who needs American Idol? Simon Cowell gives Paula Abdul a kiss as she joins U.S. X Factor

Cowell told MailOnline that he had been prepared to scrap the whole day of filming if Paula hadn't come onboard.  'We almost weren't going to do the show,' Cowell said.

Paula had finally finished negotiations and signed her contract at 11am, delaying filming for a few hours.

Reunited: Paula Abdul's contract will reunite the successful partnership with Simon Cowell which made American Idol such a success

And to make it clear just how important Paula is to him, Cowell has bumped his once-favourite judge Cheryl from pride of place next to him on the panel because Cowell says it 'feels right'.

He said they may change up the seating as the competition rolls on.

The 48-year-old kept Cole, Antonio 'L.A.' Reid and Cowell waiting on the first day of live auditions as she deliberated, but finally signed on the dotted line at 11am local time, and filming is finally under way.

Back together! The couple put on an exaggerated welcome for the press

Best of friends: The pair have a ratings winning love-hate relationship

 

Despite rumours Mariah Carey or hip-hop star Nicki Minaj would take part in the series, Cowell persevered in recruiting his established partner in crime.