Cowell wants ‘X Factor’ 2014 to be ‘all about camp and fun’
By Josh Haggis
Simon Cowell and the X Factor production team reportedly want this year’s series to be more “camp and fun”.
The forthcoming eleventh series of ITV’s singing competition sees the return of Cowell and Cheryl Cole/Fernandez-Versini to the judging panel after a three-year absence – joined by show stalwart Louis Walsh and newcomer Mel B.
Viewing figures for the long-running talent contest have fallen in recent years, with the 2013 series finale pulling in under nine million viewers – a sizeable slump from the 17.5 million that watched Matt Cardle win the competition back in 2010.
According to a report in a tabloid newspaper today (July 27), Cowell has called back the panel for an additional day of filming after watching the tapes of this year’s auditions and deeming the array of talent on display a let-down.
“Simon watched the tapes of the auditions and was concerned,” a ‘source’ apparently told the Daily Star. “He has told producers to hand-pick some of the best singers in the UK and invite them to sing at the audition, which will take place next month.”
The ‘source’ then continued: “Last series there weren’t any acts that got everyone talking. It was dull. This series the producers want lots of acts like Rylan and Steps, who are fun but with good vocals as well.”
“Guys with guitars are being ditched with only a few exceptions,” the ‘source’ added. “This year is all about camp and fun.”
The X Factor will return to ITV next month (August) at a date to be confirmed.
Meanwhile, a former member of Girl Thing – the short-lived girlband formed by Cowell in the early noughties – has auditioned for this year’s X Factor. Find out more about their awkward reunion in front of the cameras here.
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Mark Wright booked for new series of ‘Strictly Come Dancing’?
Marcus Collins: ‘Two men dancing on ‘Strictly’ isn’t deviant and sexual’