The X Factor Kicks Off New Season with New Judges Britney & Demi

The second season of The X Factor on Fox began Wednesday night with the long-awaited debut of its two new judges, Britney Spears and Demi Lovato. They joined the returning Simon Cowell and L.A. Reid.

Before the episode aired, Madonna gave a shout-out to Britney on Facebook, writing, "Britney Spears - wishing you luck tonight on your X-Factor debut!! #GoodLuckBritney."

There was no sign of a host -- a position that remains vacant following the departure of Steve Jones after last season.

The first stops on The X Factor audition tour were Austin, Texas, and San Francisco.