[Matt]

In news that will surprise literally no-one, ITV is reportedly close to agreeing three-series extensions for X Factor and Britain's Got Talent that'll keep them on air until 2016

An official announcement could be made as early as next month, and it's believed the contract stipulates that Simon Cowell must appear as a judge on at least one of the two shows each year

ITV is on the brink of renewing The X Factor and Britain’s Got Talent until the end of 2016 in a deal that will open the door for Simon Cowell to return to the Dermot O’Leary-fronted singing contest.

The commercial broadcaster is in the final stages of negotiations with producers Syco Entertainment and FremantleMedia UK label Thames, with the deal set to be announced in November.

In recent months, ITV and Cowell have indicated that the two juggernaut entertainment shows would return, with the existing three-year deal due to end after the current series of The X Factor.

Source: http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/b...063011.article