There has been speculation for months about who Simon Cowell will have on the judging panel for "X Factor" — some even pointing to Mariah Carey as a possibility. ESSENCE.com has received confirmation from a credible source that Carey will not be a judge on the show, despite the rumors circulating. Cowell did approach the award-winning singer/songwriter with the request but she politely declined the offer, as she is busy preparing for the arrival of her twins with husband Nick Cannon and writing music for a new album.

With an endless list of accolades — including 13 ASCAP Awards, 20 BMI Awards, more weeks at #1 than any other producer or songwriter in history, etc. — Carey is a natural choice to be a high-profile judge on the talent show, but once and for all we can confirm that she will not be featured.