X Factor judge Simon Cowell has signed a two year extension to his exclusive deal to appear on ITV, until 2008.
Cowell launched his production company Syco with Sony-BMG two years ago and it has been one of the biggest production hits for ITV1, in a year when they have been thin on the ground until late.
The latest series of X Factor reaches its finale tomorrow night (Saturday) after its second series proved the most successful to date, bringing in audiences of more than 10 million viewers.
X Factor is also the number one ranking show for 16-34s on ITV1 this year with average shares for the series of more than 50% and has also sparked lucrative spins offs for new areas such as mobile.
Nigel Pickard, ITV's Director of Programmes said: "Simon Cowell is undoubtedly one of the biggest faces of ITV and we are delighted to have signed him exclusively to ITV as a performer for two more years."
Cowell added: "ITV gave me my first break on television and I'm incredibly grateful. We've had a fantastic relationship and this was a very easy decision for me to make. I'm looking forward to another successful two years."
Created by Ian Quinn
Publication Date 2005-12-16 4:40 PM
MediaWeek
