The X Factor

The X Factor
Created by
Original workThe X Factor (UK)
OwnersFremantle
Syco Entertainment
Years2004–present
Films and television
Television seriesThe X Factor (independent international versions, see below)
Miscellaneous
GenreMusic competition
First aired4 September 2004; 20 years ago (2004-09-04)
DistributorFremantle

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.

  1. ^ 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