Simon Cowell is out with bronchitis. But, auditions for The X Factor‘s second season must go on. Believe it or not, Britney Spears has been the one taking over for Cowell in his absence as the tough judge.

“She’s got a really good instinct, and when she loves something, she looks like she wants to dance on the desk. When she doesn’t like someone, she is incredibly tough.” a source tells People.

“She loves interesting and fun auditions and is prepared to stick her neck out and support someone no matter if some of the other judges disagree.”

“Whoa! I don’t even believe you’re real,” Spears told a contestant. “Was that just a track? You are amazing! Holy cow! You are a little woman, and you’re going to soar.”

But watch out if she doesn’t like you. Britney reportedly told an auditioning singer: “You have to be great to be on this show, so [I vote] no.”

OUCH!