The X Factor is reportedly poised for a "modern makeover" at ITV, according to a new report, with hopes to restore the once-inescapable talent show to its former glory.
The singing competition, devised and spearheaded by Simon Cowell, was a cultural powerhouse in the UK for several years, attracting massive viewership to its live shows and launching the career of numerous artists.
Among the most successful alumni from the series are One Direction, Little Mix, JLS, Leona Lewis, Alexandra Burke and Olly Murs, with average viewership peaking in 2010, when 17.7 million tuned in to see Matt Cardle crowned winner.
Those numbers gradually waned over the next decade, causing ITV to scrap the main series in 2018, replacing it with spin-offs Celebrity and The Band that failed to provide the necessary reinvigoration.
According to The Sun, we may see another attempt in the near future.
The tabloid reports that ITV and Talkback Thames are in talks for a revival that would recruit a younger judging panel, with the intention of establishing the show in the minds of a new generation.
Want to see this content?
This page contains content provided by Google reCAPTCHA. We ask for your permission before anything is loaded, as Google reCAPTCHA may use cookies and other technologies. To view this content, choose 'Accept and continue' to allow Google reCAPTCHA and its required purposes.
Reportedly, the broadcaster is hoping that a revamped X Factor could boost their current weekend line-up, following the disappointing performances of The Neighbourhood, The Fortune Hotel and The Voice UK.
A source told The Sun: "ITV have a giant gaping hole that needs filling in its entertainment schedule, particularly over weekends when bigger viewing figures are up for grabs.
"Rather than creating more 'flop' formats they have the opportunity to give The X Factor, a sure-fire hit, a modern makeover."
They continued: "They can explore a younger, fresher panel, with new faces and have Cowell behind the scenes. The plan is for the show's return to take on a new life and be updated to envelop social media generation."
Those modernisation efforts may involve revising selection and handling of contestants, following subsequent debates over the ethics of broadcasting the show's most embarrassing auditions.
Meanwhile, BBC Radio 4 documentary Offstage: Inside the X Factor has detailed stressful experiences that even some of the show's more promising participants had.
A spokesperson for The X Factor told the BBC: "Duty of care is of the utmost importance to us, and we always take contributor welfare extremely seriously."
In January, Sky announced it was collaborating with Cowell on another documentary about The X Factor, which The Sun's source describes as "celebratory" and "likely to remind fans about its success".
They added: "The X Factor was one of the most iconic shows in TV history and created dozens of stars and household names who are still riding high today. Executives at Talkback Thames have had discussions with ITV chiefs about a comeback and they are super-keen for it."
has reached out to ITV for comment.
Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Add shows to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more.