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Sam Matthews of Brand Republic reported that London – ITV is gong to launch a one-off celebrity version of X Factor later in the year.

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The show will include some of the original “X Factor” contingent of judges – Sharon Osbourne, Simon Cowell and Westlife manager Louis Walsh. Kate Thornton will be back to host this live event. 

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Matthews said this in his comments: 

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“ITV is keeping the celebrity line-up a closely guarded secret but has revealed there will be the same three categories: under 25s; over 25s; and groups. 

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Paul Jackson, ITV's new director of entertainment and comedy, said: "The 'X Factor' was a runaway success and united the nation in debates over the rights and wrongs of who got voted out each week.

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"We are in discussions with celebrities right now but are keeping some of the elements of the show under wraps." 

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The show is due to air on consecutive nights this spring. 

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Richard Holloway, head of entertainment at Talkback Thames, the independent production company behind the show, said viewers will not be disappointed: "We are lining up some great names to take part."

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This series has been a huge hit for ITV as it has had an average of 8m viewers a week with 10.8 for the finale; big numbers in the UK. The eventual winner, Shayne Ward took the ‘X Factor’ crown and along with it a recording contract with Sony/BMB.