FILE - In this Jan. 11, 2012 file photo, Demi Lovato, poses backstage at the People's Choice Awards in Los Angeles. Lovato said Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2013, that she is leaving 'The X Factor' to focus on her music. (AP Photo/Matt Sayles, File)
December 19, 2013 - 2:08 AM
LOS ANGELES, Calif. - Demi Lovato says she's leaving "The X Factor" to focus on her music career.
In an interview after Wednesday's performance show the 21-year-old singer-actress said she wanted to return to her "roots."
Lavoto plans to devote next year to touring and working on a new album.
"X Factor" producer-judge Simon Cowell said working with Lovato has been "fun," but the timing is right for "something new." Cowell would not comment on potential replacements for Lovato.
This is the "Heart Attack" singer's second season on the judging panel of the Fox competition.
Lovato's fourth studio album, "Demi," debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200 albums chart in May.
The season three "X Factor" winner will be announced during Thursday's finale.
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News from © The Associated Press, 2013