[Denver]

A source spilled the beans to Digital Spy about the lowered age limit, citing Liam Payne as one of the success stories of 14-year-old auditionees, and it seems that the powers that be reckon it's about time to find some more young talent.

"The X Factor has had a long history of teenage contestants really shining on the show," the source said.

X Factor is probably bringing back all four judges
"Look at the likes of Liam Payne who was 14 when he first auditioned and that experience really stood him in good stead when he returned in 2010.

"There are so many talented youngsters out there – and producers believe it's time to give youth a chance again."

An X Factor spokesperson clarified the details to Digital Spy in a statement, saying: "The X Factor auditions are now open to anyone aged 14 or over in order to give a new generation of budding singers the chance to apply.

"Anyone under the age of 18 will need their parent or guardian's permission to apply and they will also need their parent or guardian to accompany them to their audition."

http://www.digitalspy.com/tv/the-x-f...-14-years-old/