Simon Cowell is reportedly considering Maya Jama to host a revival of The X Factor, as ITV seeks to rejuvenate the program and capture a younger audience. The revamped show is said to be aiming for a demographic similar to the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing.
During its original run, The X Factor was a significant ratings success, drawing up to 19 million viewers and launching the careers of artists like Leona Lewis and the group One Direction. The show concluded after 15 series, with ITV subsequently airing two spin-off programs, X Factor: Celebrity and X Factor: The Band.
Talkback Thames, the production firm behind the potential revival, is reportedly targeting Maya Jama, known for her role on Love Island, to front the talent competition. Sources suggest Cowell, who previously worked with Jama on his 2021 show Walk The Line, holds her in high regard. "Maya is perfect for the reboot as she would bring a fresh young audience as well as energy," a source told The Sun. "She has plenty of experience hosting live shows and is one of the hottest talents on telly right now. Plus she loves music and really knows her stuff."
The X Factor's return is intended to boost ITV's viewing figures, particularly during weekend slots. Insiders claim the broadcaster is keen to bring back the show with a modern makeover after recent programming, including The Neighbourhood and The Fortune Hotel, reportedly underperformed. "ITV have a giant gaping hole that needs filling in its entertainment schedule, particularly over weekends when bigger viewing figures are up for grabs," a source indicated. "Rather than creating more flop formats they have the opportunity to give The X Factor, a sure-fire hit, a modern makeover."
Plans for the revival reportedly include a "younger, fresher panel, with new faces and have Cowell behind the scenes." The aim is to update the show to appeal to a "social media generation."
Other personalities being considered for the hosting role include Rylan Clark and Dermot O'Leary. Last month, reports also suggested that head judge Simon Cowell himself would be involved in some capacity.
The X Factor originally aired on ITV, with its presenters over the years including Kate Thornton, Dermot O'Leary, Caroline Flack, and Olly Murs. The judging panel featured a rotating cast of celebrities such as Sharon Osbourne, Louis Walsh, Dannii Minogue, Cheryl, Gary Barlow, Tulisa, Kelly Rowland, Nicole Scherzinger, Mel B, Rita Ora, Ayda Field, Robbie Williams, and Louis Tomlinson, alongside Cowell.
Contestants were typically divided into four categories: boys, girls, over-25s, and groups, and were mentored by the judges. The show's success spawned numerous successful artists, including Olly Murs, Little Mix, One Direction, JLS, Leona Lewis, and James Arthur.
Sky has also announced an upcoming documentary series that will explore the history of The X Factor.
ITV has been contacted for comment on the potential revival.