The BBC is reportedly launching a new singing competition for "undiscovered talent".
The broadcaster is expected to film a pilot for ‘The Next Stage’ very soon, and the programme could fill the gap being left by ‘The X Factor’ as Simon Cowell’s talent show is taking a break for 2020.
Producers are said to want "original and passionate singer/songwriters" to apply to "showcase their songs to the nation", with original material encouraged alongside "unique covers of their favourite hits".
A source told the Daily Mirror newspaper: "The aim is find undiscovered talent who need a leg-up on their way to launching a music career.
"It doesn’t matter if they are a solo artist or a band, we’re keen to hear from everyone from all musical genres and backgrounds."
BBC Studios is planning the pilot, and if it is a success it is said the show could air on Saturday nights.
The news comes after media mogul Simon confirmed ‘X Factor’ would be rested for 2020 as the team try to find a way to breathe new life into the flagging format.
He recently explained: "I thought, since it is 2020, a new decade, we have to rest it for a year.
"We have to come back with a show that is relevant, different, a show that takes into account all the different things kids are watching and being influenced by.
"As well as the evolution of ‘The X Factor’, I’ve got two new talent shows we’re launching in the next 12 months. One, in particular, I do think is our best one yet."
An ITV spokesperson previously stressed that bosses are still working on their schedule for the rest of the year.
They said: "Plans for this autumn are still being finalised and will be announced in due course. We are currently filming Britain’s Got Talent 2020."
BBC ‘planning Next Stage talent show’
