Why did Britney Spears take 'X Factor' break?

Why did Britney Spears take 'X Factor' break?

Leave it to Brit-Brit to cause a ruckus the first day on the job.

Britney Spears showed up for the X Factor auditions in Austin on Thursday.

According to E!'s Marc Malkin, the singer "remained sweet and calm, only giving two no's during the auditions."

Her harshest critique? "I feel like you need a new teacher to teach you how to sing."

About 14 soloists and groups sang for the judges, reports Malkin.

After the tenth contestant, Spears was escorted backstage and she didn't come back for the last four acts.

The move prompted reports that she had "walked off the set."

Her absence wasn't addressed, even when some in the crowd shouted, "Where's Britney?!"

Later Spears tweeted: "#Britneywalksoff??? LOL was just taking a little break people. I am having the BEST time!!!"

She was in her seat for the second show taping, reports Malkin, and stayed for the entire three-hour shoot. She even took on Simon Cowell at one point when he was mean to a contestant, saying, "That was rude, Simon!"

The judges return today for two more audition show tapings.