The X Factor 2017 start date is finally announced

From Digital Spy

If you've been wondering where the hell The X Factor is in your TV schedules, then worry no more.

ITV has finally announced that the 2017 edition of the talent contest will kick off on Saturday, September 2 at 8pm.

This is slightly later than the usual late August kick-off, but what's a couple of days between friends?

Despite its late start, it should still be before BBC One launches its rival Strictly Come Dancing, which is expected to begin its latest series a week later on September 9.

ITV has yet to confirm whether The X Factor will also be shown on Sunday in its opening weekend.

The X Factor will once again start with its audition stage, with returning judges Simon Cowell, Nicole Scherzinger, Sharon Osbourne and Louis Walsh.

After a few weeks, they'll then head to the arena-based Bootcamp, followed by the downright tough Six Chair Challenge, and then Judges' Houses before the all-important live shows.

Dermot O'Leary will once again be your main man as the show's reliable host and dad-dancer extraordinaire.

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