What is 'The X Factor'?:
The X Factor is the U.S. version of a reality show and singing competition that has been the top British series for nearly a decade. One of the aspects that sets The X Factor apart from other reality singing competitions (like American Idol) is that the singers must audition in front of both the judges and a live audience of thousands.
How Does 'The X Factor' Work?:
- The Audition: A hundred thousand singers audition for the judges and a theater audience, who both vote on which performers to accept.
- Bootcamp: At Bootcamp, singers are sorted into four groups and must sing, dance and perform to move on.
- Judges' Houses: Each group is assigned to a judge. The contestants move in with their judge, living in the judge's house where the judge will choose their favorite singers.
- Live Show: Judges will coach their singers on song choice, outfits and stage presence. The judges panel will critique the live performances but viewers choose the X-Factor winner by voting for their favorite singers.
What Does the Winner of 'The X Factor' Win?:
The singers on The X Factor compete for the chance to win a recording contract. Reportedly the largest prize in TV history, the recording contract with Syco/Sony Music is worth five million dollars
Who Are 'The X Factor' Judges?:
The judges on The X Factor are Simon Cowell, Antonio "L.A." Reid, Paula Abdul and Nicole Scherzinger. Simon Cowell and Paula Abdul reunite after many years as judges on American Idol. L.A. Reid is the former Chairman of Island Def Jam Music Group, which signed superstars like Jay-Z, Mariah Carey, Pink, Usher and Jennifer Lopez. Nicole Scherzinger was a judge on The Sing-Off and winner of Dancing with the Stars Season Ten.
Who Hosts 'The X Factor'?:
Steve Jones is the host of The X Factor. The model turned TV host can also be seen on the shows Drop Zone, Wedding Crashers, 101 Ways to Leave a Gameshow and Jones Brothers Amazon Adventure.
Who Produces 'The X Factor'?:
The X Factor is produced by Syco Television and FremantleMedia North America. Executive producers include Simon Cowell, Rob Wade, Siobhan Greene, Cecile Frot-Coutaz, Richard Holloway and Andrew Llinares.
When Does 'The X Factor' Air?:
The X Factor first appeared on September 21, 2011 and airs on Fox, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 8/7PM Central.
