Natalie Bassingthwaighte announced on Twitter on Wednesday afternoon that she will not be returning to The X Factor.
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The Rogue Traders singer, affectionately known as Nat Bass, tweeted her exit news then followed up apparently committing to the New Zealand version of the reality talent show.
She also expressed excitement about the progress of the children's clothing range, called Chi Khi, that she launched in February.
A Channel Seven spokesperson deflected speculation about who might replace her, saying that announcement would come separately but "soon".
I wanted you all to be the first to know that I won't be returning to X Factor Aus this year. I am enjoying my time on X Factor NZ and I ... — Nat Bassingthwaighte (@nataliebassing) April 29, 2015
There is also considerable speculation that a second member of the judging panel, Redfoo, may follow Bassingthwaighte out the door.
It is believed the other two judges, Ronan Keating and Dannii Minogue, will be back when the show returns "later in the year".
Bassingthwaighte joined The X Factor Australia in 2011 (replacing Natalie Imbruglia) and was rushed into the Kiwi franchise this year after husband-and-wife team Willy Moon and Natalia Kills were sacked following their brutal appraisal of contestant Joe Irvine.
X Factor NZ judge Stan Walker recently said Bassingthwaighte was such a good addition to the show that she should have been there from the outset.
We miss you already Nat, thanks so much for so many good times. https://t.co/lnVINY1LrP — The X Factor Aus (@thexfactor_au) April 29, 2015