X Factor: Dermot O'Leary misses out on US hosting job

Image source, bbc

X Factor presenter Dermot O'Leary will not present a US version of the show, despite making judge Simon Cowell's shortlist.

O'Leary, speaking on the X Factor Twitter feed, said he was disappointed and "would have loved a crack at the American gig".

He added: "At least I was the only Brit to make the shortlist."

O'Leary, 37, has now renewed his deal with the UK version of The X Factor, which starts again later this year.

No presenter has been confirmed for the US show.

Shortlist

In a statement to Newsbeat, Dermot O'Leary said: "I am obviously disappointed that I didn't get the American X Factor gig.

"I do, however, understand why the producers went with an American host. It's all a question of balance.

"In any event I'm busy doing the UK show but I wish Simon, Freemantle and Fox every success with its launch."

The winner of X Factor USA will get a $5 million (拢3.09m) recording contract which Fox says is the biggest guaranteed prize in television history.

Simon Cowell hasn't announced the other three judges for the show despite speculation that Cheryl Cole will be handed a place.

Auditions for the UK version of The X Factor are already under way, visiting Birmingham (20 March), Manchester (26 March) and Cardiff (9 April).