The X Factor Reboot Eyed At Fox — With A Twist (Report)
Fox is digging up some buried treasure from the early 2010s, and it sounds like "X" marks the spot. The network is reportedly developing a reboot of "The X Factor," the singing competition show that originally aired for three seasons (2011–2013), according to Deadline.
Based on a British format, Fox's "The X Factor" sought to discover fresh musical talent by separating its contestants into categories based on age, gender, and various other factors. Each of the show's four judges would mentor a specific group, making it a competition for them as well.
But this new "X Factor" may look a little different from the one you remember. According to Deadline, a number of "new twists" are being considered for the reboot, including the concept of contestants sharing a living space during the competition. "More sizzle" is the phrase reportedly being used to describe how the new "X Factor" will separate itself from its U.S. predecessor, and even the original U.K. version. TVLine has reached out to Fox for comment.
"X Factor" creator Simon Cowell served as a judge for all three seasons of the U.S. version, originally seated alongside L.A. Reid, Paula Abdul, and Nicole Scherzinger. The second season swapped Abdul and Scherzinger out for Britney Spears and Demi Lovato, the latter of whom stuck around until the end. The final season's judging panel consisted of Cowell, Lovato, Kelly Rowland, and Paulina Rubio.
Who are the biggest names to come out of The X Factor?
Like a lot of other music competition shows (see "The Voice," "American Idol," etc.), the truth is that you probably haven't heard of — or at least don't remember — any of the artists who actually won "The X Factor." The three acts crowned during live finales on Fox included Melanie Amaro, who hasn't released new music in a decade; Tate Stevens, a country singer who parted ways with his label in 2013; and Alex & Sierra, a duo that won viewers over with their romantic chemistry... only to break up a few years later.
That said, "The X Factor" did produce several non-winning acts that went on to find mainstream success. For example, the girl group Fifth Harmony — which itself has spawned several solo acts, including Camila Cabello and Normani — was formed during Season 2. The group, which was mentored by Simon Cowell, finished in third place.
Would you watch a rebooted "X Factor," should Fox decide to bring it back? And who would you love to see as a judge? Drop a comment with your thoughts below.