X Factor reveals new format changes for this year’s series

The X Factor has confirmed a number of format changes to this year’s series.

The new series started with its auditions in September there are a lot of changes on the way.

The new X Factor 2018 judges were previously confirmed with Ayda Williams, Robbie Williams and Louis Tomlinson joining Simon Cowell on the panel.

Simon said: “This new panel is all about optimism, everyone has a real passion for finding a new star. The three new judges bring a whole new energy and I’m excited.”

Dermot O’Leary returns as host of The X Factor for his eleventh year. As ever he will be on hand to offer contestants words of advice and his coveted hugs.

Meanwhile, Sharon Osbourne will return to the judging panel for the live shows.

This series has seen the return of the arena auditions at The SSE Arena, Wembley, in front of the judges and a 4,000 strong audience.

The try outs conclude this weekend but for 2018 there is NO bootcamp. Instead, acts who got three or more than three ‘yeses’ at the auditions go through to a new stage: The judge’s deliberation. Replacing bootcamp, this is where the judges will decide who gets to fight for a seat in the Six Chair Challenge.

The Six Chair Challenge itself also has a new twist.

This year each of the judges has one guaranteed Safe Seat to give in the Six Chair Challenge by pressing a Golden X. The judge can only press the Golden X for one act in their own category. It means the act cannot be swapped out of their chair and they’ll go straight through to Judges’ Houses.

From there, contestants are whittled down for the chance to be on the live shows.

Details for the live shows have yet to be announced.

But up for grabs for the winner is the chance to launch their music career.

Rak-Su’s 2017 winner’s duet Dimelo, with Wyclef Jean and Naughty Boy, debuted at No.2 in the Official Charts. During the week of release, the four-piece had five songs in the Top Ten on iTunes simultaneously, including the No.1 spot.

Ahead of their debut album release, they toured the UK with Little Mix on their stadium Summer Hits Tour.

The X Factor continues this Saturday and Sunday night on ITV.