X Factor announces changes in show format
The X Factor are to cut their live shows down to seven.
Show chief Simon Cowell is planning a number of changes to this year's competition, with the finals being reduced by three weeks, in-room auditions ditched from the show completely, and arena try-outs taking place only in London and Manchester.
The filming changes have allowed new judge Rita Ora to be able to commit to the show as she can fit it around her own recording schedule, The Sun newspaper reports.
The 'I Will Never Let You Down' singer - who was previously a guest judge in 2012 - joined the show from The Voice after having secret meetings with returning panelist Cheryl Fernandez-Versini, who convinced her to sign up.
A source said: "They are both girly girls and are going to stick together."
Let's do this @grimmers @cherylofficial @simoncowell @TheXfactor #xfactor pic.twitter.com/l7blKnlO8h
— Rita Ora (@RitaOra) June 16, 2015
Despite their shortened workload, it has been claimed the judging panel will cost more than ever, with both Rita and fellow newcomer Nick Grimshaw being paid £1 million for their services, while Cheryl will land £1.8 million and Simon gets a huge £4.2 million.
However, despite earning far more than she made on The Voice, the 24-year-old singer is said to be angry at claims she is joining its rival for the money.
"Rita is adamant she is not moving for money. She is angry and insistent that she started as a guest judge on 'The X Factor' and is going home. She has a new album this autumn and it all fits,” a source close to Rita told the Daily Mirror newspaper.
"But if it was all just about money she wouldn't be on the show and would be going around the world making millions from endorsements and more live performances."
