EXCLUSIVE: The X factor could make a return to US screens with Fox working on a reboot of the hit British entertainment format.
Deadline understands that a new version of the series is in development at the network, which aired an American version for three seasons starting in 2011.
The new version, which has been in the works for some time, is expected to add new features to the format created by Simon Cowell. We hear it should feature contestants living in a house together. Fox found success with this approach in its recent reboot of Fear factorhosted by Johnny Knoxville. Insiders said the new version will have “more sizzle” than previous iterations.
The project comes from Fremantle, which produced the original version, and Mischief & Wonder, founded by Sydney-based producers Emma Lamb and Leigh Aramberri, who worked on Australian versions of shows such as The Voice, married at first sight And The incredible race. The duo is helping develop the series, but it’s unclear what their involvement will be in a potential series.
Although the reboot has not received the official green light, a decision is expected to be made soon. It’s unclear where exactly the series would film if given a series order, but producers are considering a California tax credit, which could mean they’ll film in Los Angeles.
The X factor has been broadcast in the US since 2013 and in the UK since 2018, although there have been two spin-offs in Britain featuring celebrities and bands. There have been press reports in the UK that ITV was also considering bringing the series back.
The franchise has discovered artists who have sold more than 150 million records worldwide, including 130 number ones. The most successful act on the American version was Fifth Harmony.
Four years ago, Cowell was rumored to be considering bringing the series back with NBC as part of a larger deal he had with the company.
When The X factor Launched in the United States in 2011, it was hosted by Steve Jones with Cowell as a judge alongside LA Reid, Paula Abdul and Nicole Scherzinger. Mario Lopez and Khloe Kardashian returned to host season two, with only Lopez returning for season three. Other judges across all three seasons included Britney Spears, Demi Lovato, Kelly Rowland and Paulina Rubio.
Interestingly, Rob Wade, who is now CEO of Fox Entertainment, was one of the executive producers of the original version of The X factor in the United States
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