US X-Factor $5m prize

The winner of the American version of "The X Factor" is to get a record-breaking 5 million dollar record deal.

That's the largest guaranteed prize in TV history.

Simon Cowbell has left "American Idol" after nine seasons to focus on the show which starts in the autumn.

In an interview posted on Youtube today, Cowell revealed the multi-million pound prize as well as news of the cities where Americans could audition (Miami, New York, Chicago, Seattle, Los Angeles and Dallas).

So what is Simon looking for? He says "not the best looking or the best singer but someone with the special magic it takes to be a star". He cited Lady Gaga as the perfect example. "She's got the X-Factor".