X Factor Start Date Confirmed

After crowning Little Mix the winners of the X Factor 2011, the show is set to find the next big star in the world of music when the show returns to our screens on August 18.

With Kelly Rowland deciding not to return to the show, viewers of the show will see Geri Halliwell, Rita Ora, Mel B and a host of other celebrities taking on the role of guest judge during the auditions stage of the competition.

It is believed that the first episode of the new series, will run for 75 minutes and will start at 8pm.

Despite having shown interest in hosting the US version of the X Factor, Dermot O'Leary will return to front the show, whilst Caroline Flack will be seen presenting the Xtra Factor on her lonesome as her Xtra Factor co-host, Olly Murs was on tour during the auditions stage.

As fans revel in the good news that the X Factor is back, judge Gary Barlow is currently mourning the loss of his daughter Poppy, who was stillborn on August 4.

Tweeting his thanks to his fans who have offered their condolences since Gary announced the news, the Take That frontman tweeted: "Your kind words and lovely messages are overwhelming. thank you."

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