The X Factor and BGT to be renewed for at least another year as ratings surge for Celebrity version
THE X Factor and Britain’s Got Talent are set to be renewed for at least another year.
ITV, Syco and Thames are looking to sign another deal with the two talent shows as ratings for X Factor: Celebrity continue to rise.
Despite reports that viewing figures have plummeted, the first episode of the new format pulled in 7.5million viewers (consolidated over the week).
An ITV spokesperson said: “ITV enjoys a very close working relationship with Syco and Thames and are currently negotiating a new deal for 2020 and beyond. This will be announced in due course.”
The news comes amid claims that the channels new head of entertainment Katie Rawcliffe was planning to axe X Factor after 15 years.
But a source revealed that rather than getting rid of the show, it will in fact continue to thrive along with Simon’s other show BGT.
The TV insider said: “ITV, Syco and Thames have worked together for many years and continue to work closely together on two of Britain‘s most loved shows.
“The X Factor Celebrity is currently the highest rating show on Saturday nights for ITV - proving that it remains one of the most watched shows on television.”
“Auditions have already been announced for BGT 2020, so everyone is looking forward to seeing what is come next year.”
This year Simon made the brave decision of doing a celebrity version of the show.
As well as the obvious difference to the original format, various other changes have been made including the decision to get rid of the Sunday night’s result’s show.
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ITV bosses have opted to air everything at once rather than splitting it over two nights like Strictly.
The insider added: “X Factor has a younger demographic than something like Strictly and people like to catch up on a Sunday after they’ve been out.
“It just makes sense to have it all in one go and it’s proved popular so far considering how many people are catching up the next day.”