X Factor set for shock return five years after it last aired as Simon Cowell ‘lands big-money deal’

TV judge Simon Cowell is said to be planning to revive the X Factor - with hopes it would return to screens NEXT YEAR.

Industry sources have alleged that the music mogul has landed a "big money deal" to re-start the popular ITV programme.

Simon, 62, is said to want to revive the much-loved show after FIVE years after recent secret conversations with a production company.

According to the , an insider said of the revival: "It has been decided that the time is right to bring The X Factor back.

"It’s really exciting. Everyone who will be working on the new series can’t wait to get started.”

The source went on to suggest that Simon had been having conversations with production experts to "strike a big-money deal".

It wasn't clear whether the show would return to ITV should a new series begin filming or if it would strike up a deal elsewhere.

"Things are in the early stages at the moment. But the wheels are definitely in motion. It is hoped that production will begin at the end of the year," another source continued.

The Sun Online have approached ITV for comment.

The X Factor ran for a total of 15 seasons after kicking off in 2004, with an array of famous judges including music mogul Simon.

Last year, Simon was said to have AXED The X Factor for good after 17 years on screen - with its last episode airing in 2018.

The ITV juggernaut excited us with a string of talented newcomers — many now established stars of pop and TV.

A representative for ITV confirmed at the time: "There are no current plans for the next series of The X Factor at this stage."

Simon went on to draw all his focus on a new big-money gameshow called Walk The Line, as well as the latest series of Britain's Got Talent.

A show insider said of X Factor: “Globally, it is still a phenomenon and rakes in millions every year. But in the UK, there is no question it has become slightly stale.

“Simon remains at the top of his game and knows how to make a hit. He owns the rights to the show, and it’s his call — not ITV’s — whether or not he drops it.

“Clearly the last thing he wants is for X Factor to fizzle out with a whimper and become a bit of a joke — especially in contrast to the show in its pomp.

“It is still on the back-burner and there’s the option to return it in 2023, with auditions next summer, but a lot will ride on his new format Walk The Line.”