Brian Friedman thinks ‘The X Factor’ needs to return to its "old formula" if it wants to claw back its viewers.
The 38-year-old choreographer – who is the show’s creative director – believes the programme needs to ditch the live open auditions if it has any hope of beating its rival ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ in this year’s ratings battle.
Speaking to The Daily Star newspaper about the programme, he said: "There have been a lot of changes through the years on that show, but I feel if things get back to the old formula then maybe the ratings will follow. If the formula is right, people are going to watch."
And it seems bosses are already taking the first steps in reviving the programme as they have decided to bring back host Dermot O’Leary – who presented the show for eight consecutive years until he was dropped last year – when the singing competition returns to screens later this year.
Speaking about the 42-year-old presenter, he said: "It seems without Dermot the show didn’t do that well. Having him back and also room auditions is great."
Meanwhile, big boss Simon Cowell is also reportedly trying to persuade former judge Louis Walsh – who was axed from the panel last year after 11 years on the show – to return as well.
Brian Friedman wants the original X Factor structure
