| The X Factor | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Created by | |
| Original work | The X Factor (UK) |
| Owners | Fremantle Syco Entertainment |
| Years | 2004–present |
| Films and television | |
| Television series | The X Factor (independent international versions, see below) |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Genre | Music competition |
| First aired | 4 September 2004 |
| Distributor | Fremantle |
The X Factor is a television music competition franchise created by British producer Simon Cowell and his company Syco Entertainment. It originated in the United Kingdom, where it was devised as a replacement for Pop Idol (2001–2003), and has been adapted in various countries. The "X Factor" of the title refers to the undefinable "something" that makes for star quality.[1]
Similar to Got Talent, the franchise maintains a YouTube channel, called X Factor Global. The channel uploads clips of X Factor shows from around the world. The channel currently has over 3 million subscribers. Additionally, many individual X Factor shows have their own YouTube channels such as X Factor Latvia.
- ^ Described as "something you can't quite put your finger on" by Cheryl Cole, a judge on the UK version of The X Factor, The Xtra Factor, 23 November 2009