The X Factor
The X Factor has proved a huge success for ITV. In the series, which Simon Cowell has described as serious factual drama and yet managed to win a Best Comedy Entertainment award, Cowell, Louis Walsh, Cheryl Cole and Dannii Minogue (formerly Sharon Osbourne and Brian Friedman) try to discover the nation's next singing star.
The X Factor attracts tens of thousands of entries and many millions of viewers; as well as gaining several awards including a prestigious BAFTA in 2006.
From 2007, The X Factor is presented by Dermot O'Leary and is accompanied by the Xtra Factor, presented by Holly Willoughby, on ITV2.
The winner of the 2006 The X Factor was Leona Lewis and Ray Quinn was runner-up.
In 2007, Leon Jackson won with Rhydian Roberts runner-up.