X Factor Renewed

X TIMES TWO: The X Factor has delivered solid enough ratings to earn a second season from Fox, according to Deadline.com. Fox President of Alternative Mike Darnell called the show “a monumental success,” even though it hasn’t lived up to Simon Cowell’s predictions of a 20 million audience. “It’s won every night it’s been on the air, the talent is phenomenal, the live shows are spectacular and picking it up is a complete no-brainer,” said Darnell. Added Cowell: “I am absolutely thrilled with the news. I have loved making the show.” X Factor picked up in its first live show last week, matching its series-high premiere demo rating (4.4). The show, which has averaged 4.7/11 in 18-49 and 13.5 million viewers, has improved Fox’s fortunes on Wednesday and Thursday, propelling the network to the top spot on Thursday in 18-49 for the first time in its history. The pickup comes before the Top 12 performance show tonight, which will feature viewer voting for the first time. (11/2p)