Despite not suffering much of a ratings dip, the last series of The X Factor UK drew the harshest criticism in the show’s history.

Somewhat expected due to the all-new panel (which saw Kelly Rowland, Gary Barlow, and Tulisa Contostavlos join the melee), the media proceded to pelt each week with a succession of anti-X Factor stories.

A practice which dented both the show’s reputation and the ego of creator Simon Cowell – who left his role as a judge in 2010 to  focus on the US version.

And though still one of Britain’s most-watched entities, Cowell has this week gone on record to tease axing the show, while it’s ahead. The 52 year old is apparently so far gone with his stance that he’s already conceptualised a replacement should the forthcoming 9th season suffer further decline:

Via Digital Spy…

Speaking at the press launch of Britain’s Got Talent, Cowell said:

“In a year’s time we might say, ‘Right, that’s the end of The X Factor. Let’s start something new. I’d rather fall off the cliff on numbers than deteriorate slowly.

We have something in development which could replace The X Factor. Most things in music, fashion or TV tend to be across a ten-year period.

The great test of success is if you can transcend a decade. I believe we can do it again if we’re prepared to be brave.”

Your thoughts?