"The X Factor" won't return in the U.S.

"The X Factor" has been put to rest in America.

Fox announced Friday that the singing competition is ending after three seasons.

Simon Cowell, the show's creator, said in a statement: "I've had a fantastic time over the last 12 years, both on 'The X Factor' and 'American Idol.' And apart from being lucky enough to find some amazing talent on the shows, I have always had an incredible welcome from the American public -- most of the time!"

Kevin Reilly, Fox chairman of entertainment, said: "To all of us at Fox, Simon is more than one of the most prolific TV personalities of our time -- he's part of our family.  A consummate showman and partner, there's no one more passionate or creative than Simon, and we feel so fortunate to have enjoyed such a wonderful, collaborative relationship with him over the past 12 years. Unfortunately, there is no 'X Factor USA' without Simon Cowell, but we understand and support his decision to focus on the international formats and on the next phase of his personal life."

The show, though, will remain alive, though, in some fashion. Cowell is expected to return to the U.K. version, which launched the career of One Direction, later this year. 

Faced with sluggish ratings, "The X Factor" also experienced a few shake-ups among its judges since debuting in 2011. Paul Abdul, Britney Spears, Demi Lovato, Nicole Scherzinger and Kelly Rowland were among the stars who graced the panel.