The X Factor creator Simon Cowell is planning big changes to the show's format ahead of a possible return in 2022.

The reality series was a staple of ITV's autumn schedules for 15 years but was "rested" last year amid flagging ratings and will also not return this year.

According to The Sun, Cowell, whose other big show Britain's Got Talent is also off air in 2021 due to coronavirus, is looking at ways of resurrecting the format - possibly involving a mysterious "hybrid model with online streaming".

A source told the newspaper: "Simon wants to keep everyone on his sets safe and let 2021 play out.

"But he feels, after a much-needed break, X Factor 2022 will be good to go, with some changes."

"He's asked his team to examine what TV formats could be ready by next year and feels channels and streaming platforms are in need of new ideas and there are opportunities to shape the future of TV."

Before the show was rested, Cowell experimented with two different formats - The X Factor: Celebrity and The X Factor: Band - in 2019.