Welcome to the official X Factor Global Channel. The first series of The X Factor began in the UK September 2004 and has been a smash hit ever since. A panel of expert judges from the music industry preside over initial auditions, with audience votes coming into play during later live shows featuring the selected contestants in four distinct categories, one assigned to each of the four judges. The X Factor has no barriers as it is open to all ages, all styles, solo acts or groups. And the performers aren't the only ones competing -- the judges get in on the act as well, pitting their skills against each other as they search for the one act that has The X Factor.