Simon Cowell's Return to 'The X Factor' Brings Better Debut Ratings to UK Show

Things seem to be looking up for The X Factor (UK) following the return of original creator Simon Cowell. Ratings were higher during Saturday's showing than in the previous two season debuts for the show. The show brought in an average of 9.5 million viewers according to reports from The Hollywood Reporter.

We can't automatically assume that the rise was as a result of Cowell's return-2012 had a record low debut of 8.7 million average viewers, while 2013 rose to 9.2 million, plus the highest debuting episode came during 2011 sans Cowell, with totals in the neighbors of 11.1 million viewers on average. Still, it can't hurt to have the boss back. His last year in the role of judge was during 2010 and that season debuted with 11.1 million viewers on average.

Cowell wasn't the only big shakeup to The X Factor's roster. He axed former judges Sharon Osbourne, Take That's Gary Barlow and Nicole Scherzinger, replacing them with Spice Girl Mel B and Girls Aloud member Cheryl Fernandez-Versini.

Although The X Factor was renewed for three seasons, Cowell still has to keep an eye on his numbers. After all, he didn't return to the original European version out for sentimental reasons: The American version of the show was cut from FOX's lineup this year. The UK version has had a better run, at least in terms of performers produced, however. The show is responsible for stars such as Leona Lewis and Little Mix.

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