MUMBAI: India had earlier witnessed Simon Cowell giving his cold shoulder on 'The X Factor US'. Now, for the first time, Vh1 is airing the original 'X Factor UK' season soon after its British telecast. The latest 'X Factor Series 11' will soon hit Indian television screens.

Being a Fremantle Media original series, 'The X Factor' is one of the largest television talent competitions in Europe and is successfully produced in over 40 different territories around the world including India. On acquiring 'X Factor', Viacom18 EVP & Head - English Entertainment Ferzad Palia said, "'The X Factor' fits in extremely well with our larger scope of programming." Palia further added that Vh1 India's acquisition of the broadcast of 'The X Factor UK' did not include any of its previous seasons. When asked if Vh1 India would air any future X Factor UK series, if commissioned, Palia remained tight-lipped.

'The X Factor' is the brainchild of Simon Cowell's company Syco. This year, the judging panel includes Cowell, BRIT Award nominee Cheryl Cole, Mel B (Scary Spice of Spice Girls) and Irish entertainment manager Louis Walsh. Currently in the UK, the show is airing the audition rounds. Previous 'X factor UK' winner include Grammy Award nominee Leona Lewis, BRIT Award nominees Alexandra Burke, Joe McElderry and James Arthur and VEVO Certified Award winner Little Mix.