[Deja*Vu]

ITV has signed a deal to broadcast a British version of Simon Cowell's new US reality series America's Got Talent.

The show invites all manner of talented performers - ranging from comedians to dancers and musicians - to try their luck in front of a panel of judges. In the later stages of the competition the public votes on who progresses in the competition and eventually, which act scoops the "substantial" cash prize.

The judging panel will include Piers Morgan - who is one of three judges on the US version - and Cowell. Although he executive produced the format, he was unable to appear on the US version because he is exclusively contracted with American Idol broadcaster Fox. America's Got Talent airs on rival network NBC.

“I am very excited about this show coming to Britain," said Cowell. "The fact that it has been such a huge success in America has made me even more enthusiastic about bringing it here. This competition has no rules and no age limits. On this show absolutely anything can happen."

The series is likely to air early next year following the conclusion of The X Factor.