Perhaps in a very good sign for the upcoming premiere of the US X Factor, the original UK series broke an impressive ratings record on its season finale last night:

A record audience of nearly 20 million British viewers flocked to the “X Factor’s” Sunday night finale, which awarded a 1 million-pound ($1.6 million) recording contract to painter Matt Cardle, heretofore unknown beyond his immediate circle of friends.

The British experience suggests the headline-grabbing, rags-to-riches show may be a smash in the United States when it debuts next year, even if it’s got some strong similarities to the popular but waning “American Idol.”

$1.6 million for prize money?! That’s a lot of money to give to the winner and considering the budget is supposed to be even bigger here in America I’m wondering how much they’ll get here. Maybe they’ll just make it a record contract instead and put the rest of that change right back in Simon’s pocket!

Source: AP


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