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Let’s talk about ‘X’

February 7, 2011 0 Comments

On Thursday, following Wednesday’s San Francisco auditions, American Idol kicks off its infamous Hollywood Week. Those episodes, in which those who can’t cut it get cut, are without fail my favorite portion of the singing competition. Particularly the group performances that often implode because of near-total sleep deprivation.

But even with that delicious fun just around the corner, I’ve got one eye on fall after seeing this new promo for The X Factor during yesterday’s Super Bowl.

While sole remaining original Idol judge Randy Jackson has certainly got his Simon Cowell on in the last few episodes, I’m so looking forward to having the real thing back on television this fall. I miss the Brit’s cutting wit. And in bringing his successful UK talent competition stateside, Cowell knows America likes to go big

While he’s yet to reveal his partners on the judging panel, Cowell has just announced a $5 million recording contract for whomever wins The X Factor. Remember, the show differs from American Idol in that groups as well as solo singers can enter. Entrants can also be as young as 12 years old, while there’s no upper limit. So get set for Itty-Bitty Bieber and Grandma Gaga.

Simon explains it all right here:

Think you’ve got the ‘X Factor’? Sign up for audition info.