Radio Times: Review by:; Scott Bryan

It seems to be a yearly tradition for us all to discuss whether The X Factor can last another year. “The format is tired!” you might hear. “The winner’s album is tanking!” But consider its history. In this documentary, Paul Jackson tells the story of how an idea written on a piece of paper turned into Pop Idol, a TV phenomenon that at one time was said to be providing a third of all Fox Broadcasting revenues in the US, a show that has revolutionised television by letting the public choose the overall winner.

You might think that a programme charting the history of a television format wouldn’t be an interesting listen. I didn’t at first. But trust me, it is. Contributors include Ant and Dec.

About this programme

1/3. Paul Jackson explores the stories behind popular TV programmes, beginning with Pop Idol. Featuring contributions from producers Alan Boyd and Richard Holloway, commissioners Claudia Rosencrantz and David Liddiment, presenters Ant and Dec, former winner Michelle McManus and commentators Mike Smith and Nina Myskow.