X Factor US Canceled After Season 3: Simon Cowell to Return to UK Version of Show
"X Factor" has been canceled after three seasons, Fox announced Friday. The show, which was competing with "American Idol," "The Voice" and a host of other singing competition programs, was created by Simon Cowell, who was the main judge on the show for its run.
The "X Factor" cancellation means Cowell will return to the U.K. version of the show, which will continue.
"I've had a fantastic time over the last 12 years, both on 'The X Factor' and 'American Idol,'" Cowell said in a statement. "And apart from being lucky enough to find some amazing talent on the shows, I have always had an incredible welcome from the American public — most of the time!"
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The show had some fans on Fox, but the ratings were hardly consistent: "X Factor" averaged 7.1 million viewers in the coveted 18-49 demographic, according to Entertainment Weekly. The show was executive produced by Cowell, who vowed that it would garner similar ratings to "American Idol," where he judged for eight years.
"Unfortunately, there is no 'X Factor USA' without Simon Cowell, but we understand and support his decision to focus on the international formats and on the next phase of his personal life," Kevin Reilly, Fox Broadcasting chairman of entertainment, said in a statement. "We wish him the very best, and it's our sincere hope that we work together soon."
Cowell is having his first child soon at 54, and some have speculated that his family is his reason for leaving. The native British talent judge said he made "X Factor" and participated in "American Idol" to find the "next star."
"You (realize) how much you owe to fans who have supported all of the shows we made in both countries," he tweeted. "I have had a blast. … Thank you for the support and the fun we had together. It's never forgotten. We found some amazing talent. And now the search begins to find the next star. That's why we make these shows."
Cowell's move may not be permanent, as he said he would "see [America] soon!"
