Cowell to Leave Idol for X Factor on FOX

LOS ANGELES: Simon Cowell has confirmed that he will leave American Idol at the end of this season, focusing his efforts instead on launching The X Factor in the U.S. on FOX, which is slated for fall 2011. 

Cowell will serve as both executive producer and judge on the U.S. version. The show will be produced by Syco Television—Cowell’s JV production company with Sony Music Entertainment—and FremantleMedia North America. Cowell created and launched The X Factor in the U.K. in 2004. He will continue to serve as both executive producer and judge on the U.K. treatment. 

“I’m thrilled that we have put a date on the launch of the U.S. version of The X Factor, and delighted to be continuing to work with FOX,” said Cowell. “We have a fantastic relationship, a great team and are all very excited about this.”

 Mike Darnell, the president of alternative entertainment for Fox Broadcasting Company, commented, “We have had a very successful relationship with Simon Cowell for many years, and we’re absolutely delighted to continue our relationship with him. The X Factor has been a massive success around the world, and we can’t wait to bring it to the U.S. in 2011.”

“The X Factor has enjoyed an unparalleled success in its U.K. home market and globally,” added Cecile Frot-Coutaz, the CEO of FremantleMedia North America. “We are truly excited to bring it to the U.S. and look forward to building another entertainment franchise in the marketplace.”