Simon Cowell has planned the next stage of his ‘X Factor’ shake-up, and this time it’s the audition room stage that’s facing the axe.
According to reports, hopefuls will no longer have a private room with the judges, and instead their first meeting with them will take place in front of an arena audience.
Simon Cowell
An insider tells the Sun: “Simon always preferred the big arenas for the auditions as he likes having the audience there as a fifth judge.
“The ‘X Factor’ isn’t just about vocals – it’s about how you perform and entertain a crowd, so it makes sense to go back to the arenas and everyone on the show agrees.
“Simon said there would be changes this year and he is determined to make this one of the best years ever.
“Viewing figures weren’t bad last series, but they weren’t up to his high standards, so he is going to do everything he can to put that right.”
The audition rooms were once an ‘X Factor’ staple, however they were axed in 2008, only to be brought back again four years later.
It’s not just the show’s format that’s changing this year as it’s already been announced that Caroline Flack and Olly Murs will be taking over presenting duties from Dermot O'Leary.
The judging panel will also be looking more than a little different, as it’s believed that Mel B and Louis Walsh won’t be returning to their seats.
Simon and Cheryl Fernandez-Versini will be joined by new panelists, and One Direction’s Louis Tomlinson is reported to be in the running for one of the spots.