I Wonder What will Miss. Crowell Think Simon, Simon Kisses Paul Abdul for The Premiere of X-factor U.S

It seems the gripping love-hate relationship between Simon Cowell and Paula Abdul which made American Idol such a hit is as strong as ever.

The pair embraced with gusto as they arrived for the first day of filming the U.S. X Factor yesterday, kissing on the lips as the crowds cheered them.

Cowell told MailOnline that he had been prepared to scrap the whole day of filming if Paula hadn't come onboard. 'We almost weren't going to do the show,' Cowell said.

Paula had finally finished negotiations and signed her contract at 11am, delaying filming for a few hours.

Reunited: Paula Abdul's contract will reunite the successful partnership with Simon Cowell which made American Idol such a success

And to make it clear just how important Paula is to him, Cowell has bumped his once-favourite judge Cheryl from pride of place next to him on the panel because Cowell says it 'feels right'.

He said they may change up the seating as the competition rolls on.

And when asked why the deal with Paula was right down to the wire, Cowell said simply: 'because she's Paula Abdul!'

The 48-year-old kept Cole, Antonio 'L.A.' Reid and Cowell waiting on the first day of live auditions as she deliberated, but finally signed on the dotted line at 11am local time, and filming is finally under way.

Ready to work: The two arrive for the delayed filming

Despite rumours Mariah Carey or hip-hop star Nicki Minaj would take part in the series, Cowell persevered in recruiting his established partner in crime.

Though widely expected, confirmation of Paula was held up as negotiations continued until Sunday morning.

Paula was free to take part in the X Factor following the cancellation of her CBS show Live to Dance earlier this year.

She was recently released by the network from any further obligations.

Back together! The couple put on an exaggerated welcome for the press

Best of friends: The pair have a ratings winning love-hate relationship

After her last-minute negotiations earlier in the day, Abdul finally arrived for filming three hours later than planned yesterday.

She refused to comment on her late signing of the deal, saying only: 'I'm here'.

Wearing a purple Yves San Laurent outfit, Abdul said she was excited to work with Cheryl.

'I'm excited I get to meet her, I've heard such lovely things about her.'

But Cowell appears to have other plans for the two - already stoking suggestions of a rivalry.

'You put pretty girls together it's like three cats in a sack, isn't it,' he said. 'And it needs a bit of a shake.'

Ready for business: Abdul said she was 'excited' to meet fellow judge Cheryl Cole

The gang's all here: Cheryl Cole (left) and Antonio 'L.A.' Reid arrive for the auditions