Plans for show to hit America and beyond

THE X Factor’s domination looks set to continue, with plans to take the hit ITV1 show to America and beyond.

Simon Cowell said shows in Los Angeles and Las Vegas were being lined up, hinted that versions for countries such as Afghanistan or North Korea should not be ruled out, and said he was considering launching a referendum-type show.

But the judge and producer of The X Factor also described how a “tidal wave of stuff” can leave him feeling trapped and overloaded when the work pressures become too much.