The X Factor (UK series 9) The X Factor (UK series 9) The X Factor is a British television music competition to find new singing talent. The ninth series began airing on ITV on 18 August 2012 and ended on 9 December 2012. Dermot O'Leary returned as presenter of the main show on ITV, whilst Caroline Flack and Olly Murs returned to co-present "The Xtra Factor" on ITV2. Louis Walsh, Gary Barlow and Tulisa returned as judges. Nicole Scherzinger was confirmed as the fourth permanent judge after Geri Halliwell, Leona Lewis, Rita Ora, Mel B, Anastacia and Scherzinger herself stood in as guest judges for the
The X Factor (UK series 8) Olly Murs featuring The Muppets, and Jessie J. JLS and One Direction also appeared alongside the 16 finalists to perform this year's charity single, "Wishing on a Star". The semi-final live result show featured performances from Justin Bieber and "The X Factor" judge Rowland. The live final featured performances from Coldplay, JLS, Leona Lewis, Michael Bublé and One Direction For the live finals, "The X Factor" received new graphics and theme music similar to those already introduced on "The X Factor USA". Voting by text message, which had been absent since 2007, was reintroduced for this series in addition to