Simon Cowell Returns with “X-Factor”

Simon Cowell Returns with “X-Factor”

Television News

By our guest blogger, Joe Oliveto

Among the least memorable promos during the Super Bowl this past weekend was one vaguely sci-fi themed advertisement for a new Simon Cowell show called “X-Factor.” While all it told us was that Cowell and his trademark brand of criticism will be returning to our TVs sometime soon, it didn’t shed much light on what we can expect from the project.

Fortunately, Deadline has some more details.

The ultimate prize for the show will be a $5 million recording contract which will be awarded to a vocal group or a single individual. The minimum age limit for those wishing to participate will be twelve years, but unlike “American Idol”, there will be no limit to how young a person must be. For all we know, faux-Justin Bieber could be competing with faux-Susan Boyle sometime soon.

The format of the show remains unclear, though the article does describe it as a “reality show,” indicating that there might be a greater focus on the drama between contestants. No word yet on whether DJ Pauly D will make an appearance, but we’ll keep an eye out for him.

During his early years as an “Idol” judge, Cowell cultivated a reputation for being rude and inconsiderate, but it became clear after some time that his insights were valid and that he was only sparing with his praise because he was committed to discovering and developing real talent. While it is still unknown whether “Idol” can fully survive without him, it’s surprisingly comforting to know that he’ll be back in the game soon enough.