The new series of ‘The X Factor’ will be the most expensive yet.
Show boss Simon Cowell is determined to pull out all the stops to beat rival show ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ in the ratings so persuaded ITV to pay out over £20 million on the upcoming run, including a £10 million pay deal for married new judges Robbie Williams and Ayda Field and a £4 million contract for the other newcomer, Louis Tomlinson.
A source told the Sunday Mirror newspaper: "This is costing ITV a huge expense, it will be one of the most expensive shows on TV.
"Robbie and Ayda initially wanted £12million but ITV cut a hard bargain.
"ITV were so convinced that Robbie and Ayda would be a ratings hit they weren’t bothered about pulling out the big bucks.
"Everyone, including Simon, thinks it’s going to be a success."
ITV has also had to pay former judges Louis Walsh and Sharon Osbourne – who will return for the live shows – the remainder of three-year contracts, adding to the bill.
‘Angels’ singer Robbie previously admitted his generous pay deal was one of the reasons why he’d signed up as a judge.
Asked why he had finally joined the show, he said: "Millions, there are literally millions of reasons to be on this panel for this season."
Meanwhile, Simon, 58, is also planning some changes to the format of the show and has axed the Boot Camp stage of the competition, meaning hopefuls will go straight from the auditions to the Six Chair Challenge.
A source said: "It’s going to be more competitive than ever as those who get through the auditions will have to be the best of the best to survive the Six Chair Challenge.
"It’s all part of freshening up the show to match the new panel. It will add loads of drama and really spice things up."
X Factor’s 20m cost
