X Factor set for second series

ITV has commissioned a second series of Saturday night talent show the X Factor, it announced today.

Simon Cowell, Sharon Osbourne and Louis Walsh are in talks to resume their roles as judges for the next series.

ITV made the announcement today as the first series draws towards a close.

Tabby Callaghan, Rowetta Stachell, G4 and Steve Brookstein are still in the race with the final set to take place on December 11.

The show pulled in 7.4 million viewers last weekend, less than its Saturday night rival on BBC1, Strictly Come Dancing.

Cowell, who devised the series, said today: “Working on the X Factor has been a blast.

“I think the production team have done an amazing job but knowing what we have in mind I predict series two will be even better.”

ITV Controller of Entertainment Claudia Rosencrantz said: “I had no hesitation in re-commissioning X-Factor – its been a big hit for ITV and has become must watch TV.

“There’s much more to come this series as we build towards the final next month and its great to have secured this terrific format for our viewers for another series.”