'X Factor' USA: Steve Jones makes "embarrassing" pass at Scherzinger

X Factor USA host Steve Jones has reportedly had his romantic advances snubbed by show judge Nicole Scherzinger.

The Welsh presenter made an "embarrassing" attempt to seduce the 'Try With Me' singer at the Fox contest's Hollywood wrap party this week, according to the Daily Star.

PA Images / Chris Pizzello/AP

"He was flirting like mad and turning on his famous charm and she was giggling along with him," a source commented. "They were sitting next to each other and chatting.

"He was laying it on pretty thick. But no matter what moves he tried, Nicole just wasn't interested. It was embarrassing to watch. Steve kept kissing her hand but she kept pulling away.

"Say what you like about Steve, he's persistent. But Nicole will be a tough nut to crack."

Jones has said that he considers Scherzinger to be "fair game" if his rumoured axing from The X Factor USA comes to pass.

The pair have been romantically linked since Scherzinger split with boyfriend of three years Lewis Hamilton in October.

> Nicole Scherzinger hints at X Factor exit: 'Next year about my music'