What is The X Factor

The official website for X Factor in the UK claims that the show is the biggest talent search in the UK. On the show, judges primarily review vocal chords, but other factors such as appearance, choreography, and personality are taken into account. The show differs from other popular shows in that the judges are assigned certain age groups and act as mentors to some of the contestants. 

Although the show is most popular in the UK, it has premiered in over 32 countries on different networks. In the UK, the show has been well received, already in its seventh season. In 2008, the show claimed a record 12.6 million viewers when Britney Spears made a guest appearance. Since its beginning the show has won several awards. Cowell and his company, Syco TV, hope to replicate that model in the United States. 

The name X Factor refers to something that popular artists have, and that the show can either help discover or create; the additional boost needed to achieve fame. The prize for winning, according to the website, is a five million dollar recording contract from Sony.

The show is now taking auditions, and can be contacted through their website http://thexfactor.blogs.fox.com/.