The X Factor is a singing competition in the UK.
Simon Cowell . He is most recognised as a judge on the British TV talent competition series Pop Idol , The X Factor , and Britain 's Got Talent , and the American TV talent competition shows American Idol , The X Factor , and America 's Got Talent . As a judge , Cowell often makes blunt and controversial comments , including insults and wisecracks about contestants and their singing abilities . The X Factor (UK series 7) . Auditions took place throughout June and July 2010 , with Simon Cowell , Louis Walsh and Cheryl Cole returning as judges .