If you’re an American who misses Simon Cowell and his show The X Factor, the American version of which was canceled by FOX last year, you’ll have your chance to enjoy the original incarnation of the singing competition series when the new season of The X Factor UK begins airing on AXS TV starting Aug. 31. This marks the first time that the flagship version of the show will air in the United States.
Season 11 of The X Factor UK will feature a pair of famous faces that will be instantly recognizable to American audiences, as Simon Cowell makes his much anticipated return to the panel for the first time in three years. Additionally, former Spice Girl and America’s Got Talent fan-favorite Mel B will make her first appearance as a full-time judge, after previously serving as a guest on the series. Joining the duo is UK pop singer Cheryl Fernandez-Versini, who is also returning for the first time in three years, and esteemed music manager Louis Walsh, making his 11th consecutive appearance since 2004. Award-winning broadcaster and host, Dermot O’Leary, hosts the festivities.
The X Factor UK contestants compete in two sets of audition rounds, taking place across the UK in Manchester, London, Newcastle, and Edinburgh. In the initial closed room auditions, contestants will find themselves face-to-face with the judges for the first time. If they impress the panel and receive three or more “yes” votes, they will move on to perform in a packed arena in front of a live audience. AXS TV will air all 34 episodes of the series, beginning with the opening audition shows, in addition to special boot camp installments and live broadcasts.
“The X Factor UK is a perfect addition to the AXS TV lineup, as we continue to showcase the best music programming on television,” said AXS TV founder Mark Cuban. “The level of talent that the series has produced is unprecedented, and to have Simon Cowell back as a judge – I’m confident that our audience will embrace these new stars wholeheartedly. I’m proud that AXS TV has the opportunity to be at the forefront of this popular music franchise to showcase talented vocalists.”
The X Factor UK premieres on AXS TV Aug. 31 at 8pm ET, with a same night re-air.