Simon Cowell - Simon Cowell Returns To UK To Save X Factor's Ailing Ratings

The year's opening show attracted just 8.1 million viewers, down 3 million on the opening of last year's series, whilst the weekend just gone saw 8.6 million tune in - still less than last year. Those watching have been complaining that contestants aren't given enough screen time and, with this coming weekend being the first that the X Factor has a show on both Saturday and Sunday evening, Cowell is jetting in to personally edit the programs.

"This weekend is the first time there are two shows, one on each night, and he is determined they look great and have huge audiences" a source told the Daily Mirror. "He is sitting through the rough edits and changing bits and pieces where he feels they need it. It's the first time this year he will be really hands-on in the UK." The source continued "Some fans feel there has been too much reality and stuff off the stage so don't be surprised if there is more singing this week after Cowell has finished his mini makeover."