By DAILY MAIL REPORTER Me, ruthless? Nicole Scherzinger, who is set to replace Cheryl Cole as a judge on the U.S. X Factor, puts on an affectionate show with fans outside her hotel in Paris, France, today Nicole Scherzinger has struggled to wipe the smug grin off her face since managing to snare Cheryl Cole's U.S. X Factor job last week.But perhaps the Machiavellian singer, who has been promoted from co-host to judge in the wake of Cole's sacking, was attempting to show a softer side today as she put on an affectionate display with fans.The former Pussycat Doll put on her best smile as she greeted a small crowd of young supporters, who were waiting for her outside her hotel in Paris, France. Check me out: The singer showed off her toned figure in a form-fitting beige dress and thigh-skimming animal print bots The 32-year-old star look perfectly groomed in a form-fitting asymmetrical beige dress, teamed with thigh-skimming animal print boots.Of course, Nicole is no stranger to ruffling feathers.Back in 2009 the Pussycat Dolls, of which she was the frontwoman, imploded amid reports of infighting and jealously.The other girls were said to be bitter about Scherzinger's rising profile - while all they got to do was be her backing dancers.Nicole has since admitted she has not remained in touch with her former gal pals - Carmit Bachar, Melody Thornton, Jessica Sutta, Ashley Roberts and Kimberly Wyatt.She is now focused on her solo career and, of course, the U.S. X Factor and the exposure it will give her. Moving on up: Nicole pictured last month with Cole (R), Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, LA Ried and Steve Jones (L) Last December, Scherzinger coolly glossed the acrimony between herself and other members of the Pussycat Dolls, merely saying rows were 'inevitable'.Nicole flew to Europe a few days ago to support her motor racing driver boyfriend in the Monaco Grand Prix. Queen bee: As the former frontwoman of the Pussycat Dolls, Nicole isn't used to taking second placesource: dailymail
