Will Nicole give it all up for a baby?
The X Factor judge is ready to make big changes
She’s spoken in the past about the sacrifices she’s made for the sake of her career, saying she feels like she “missed out in life” – and now Nicole Scherzinger is giving her work-life balance a serious rethink. Sources close to the X Factor judge say she’s considering leaving the show at the end of this series for the sake of her relationship – and, potentially, to make way for a baby.
According to an insider, the 39 year old – who has been dating tennis player Grigor Dimitrov, 26, for two years – is ready to take the next step. But with incredibly busy schedules, they struggle to make time for each other – and now Grigor’s told her that something has to give. “Nicole is definitely ready for a baby,” our source tells us. “But finding the time is hard. Grigor travels on the tennis circuit [he’s ranked eighth in the world] and she works 15-hour days. She knew from the start that if they were to have a family, she’d be the one making the compromises – Grigor’s at the peak of his career. He’s really supportive of her, but they both know something has to change. Nicole can work her music around Grigor, but not The X Factor, too.”
The former Pussycat Doll first spoke about feeling “broody” years ago, while she was still with Lewis Hamilton. But as her solo career took off, family plans took a backseat. Last year, she said, “I’m not married and I ain’t got no kids yet... Work has come at a sacrifice.” Now, with new mum Cheryl poised to replace her on the show (see page 14), it seems the thought of never having children is weighing on her mind.
“Nicole knew it didn’t work with Lewis because neither of them would give up their careers – and she regrets that,” we’re told. “If she continues with the punishing schedule of The X Factor, she knows the relationship could suffer.” Our insider adds, “Nic realises that, if she doesn’t give it a go with Grigor now, kids might not be in the future.” This would be a big blow for the star, who regularly talks about her days out with her nieces and has told fans, “Family is everything.” Besides, who wouldn’t want to see some mini Scherzys in the world? n