Longer 'X Factor' voting times
Thursday, 18 June 2009
Simon Cowell is set to make millions by opening 'The X Factor' voting lines for an extra 24 hours.
The reality TV boss and ITV executives have moved the live results show to Sunday night, where it will go head-to-head with its BBC rival 'Strictly Come Dancing'.
Viewers previously had just one hour to vote after watching the contestants perform on Saturday night. After the voting time, the results were announced immediately.
Under the new system, fans can vote right up until the results show on the following night.
Network executives hope the extra day of voting time will encourage more people to call in, increasing profits made from the premium rate phone lines.
They also hope the extra live show will boost advertising revenue across the weekend.
An insider told Britain's Daily Mirror newspaper: "Lines will open during the show on Saturday and won't close until the results on Sunday, which means lots of extra cash."
The additional live show will reportedly cost £4 million, including an extra £100,000 for judges Cheryl Cole, Louis Walsh and Dannii Minogue.
The insider added: "It sounds like a lot of money in the current financial climate but 'The X Factor' is one of the jewels in ITV's crown. It is guaranteed ratings gold."
(C) BANG Media International
More X Factor »
Sharon Osbourne misses X Factor
Sharon Osbourne can't watch 'The X Factor' because she misses it too much.
Friday, 5 March 2010, 5.37pm - in Television
Kylie Minogue for X Factor
Kylie Minogue is set to be a judge on 'The X Factor'.
Wednesday, 24 February 2010, 12.31pm - in Television
Simon Cowell signs Olly Murs
Olly Murs has been given a record contract by his 'X Factor' mentor Simon Cowell.
Wednesday, 24 February 2010, 9.31am - in Television
Irreplaceable judge Simon Cowell
Simon Cowell is "flattered" people think he's irreplaceable.
Monday, 22 February 2010, 9.31am - in Television
Simon Cowell wants Gaga for X Factor
Simon Cowell wants Lady Gaga to appear on 'American Idol'.
Friday, 19 February 2010, 1.03pm - in Television
Kyle Minogue's X Factor no
Kylie Minogue would make a "terrible" 'X Factor' judge.
Friday, 19 February 2010, 6.48am - in Television
