ITV signs 3-year deal with Simon Cowell for X-Factor and BGT

A new three-year deal has been struck for The X Factor and Britain’s Got Talent. The agreement, with Syco Entertainment and FremantleMedia UK, extends ITV’s long-running relationship with Simon Cowell through until the end of 2016 and is estimated to be worth between £140 million and £150 million.

Britain’s Got Talent will return to ITV next Spring for an eighth series, with the eleventh series of The X Factor following in the Autumn. ITV2 will also continue to broadcast sister shows The Xtra Factor and Britain’s Got More Talent.

“Britain’s Got Talent and The X Factor are two of the most popular and most talked about shows on TV,” said Peter Fincham, ITV Director of Television.

“They set the gold standard for entertainment production. We’re pleased to announce this deal which will see them continue to be an important part of ITV’s schedule.”

Simon Cowell added: “I am thrilled that we have extended our deal with ITV for Britain’s Got Talent and The X Factor. They have been fantastic partners and we have some exciting new plans to take the shows to the next level.”

The X Factor regularly sees audience figures between 9 and 10 million, but has experienced a decline in the last few years. It is also struggling to keep up with BBC One’s Strictly Come Dancing, which has consistently beaten it in Saturday night ratings over the last few months.