In true Hollywood fashion, "The X Factor" drummed up buzz ahead of its U.S. television premiere by hosting an exclusive private screening of the first episode in Hollywood on September 14.
The British talent show, the brainchild of "American Idol" judge Simon Cowell, is launching its search for the next big singing talent in the United States.
Cowell, who left the "Idol" franchise to focus on "The X Factor," was joined on the red carpet by his fellow judges, former Pussy Cat Dolls singer Nicole Scherzinger, former "Idol" judge Paula Abdul, and music mogul L.A. Reid. They were also joined by British television personality Steve Jones, who will be hosting "The X Factor" as his first presenting role in the U.S.
The X Factor format will see the first round of auditions open to the public in six major cities across the U.S. The contestants are judged by the panel and the audience and narrowed down to a selected few, who advance to 'boot camp.' Each judge then selects their finalists, who will compete in the live shows beginning November 2.
The X Factor premieres on Fox on September 21.
Lindsay Claiborn, Reuters.
