No, I don’t mean appearing on. The Guardian’s TV critic Charlie Brooker takes on the mighty popularity of The X Factor. In the most recent article, Brooker describes X Factor as:

one of the nation’s favourite shows, possibly because in these uncertain times, its never-changing, crashingly predictable nature means it represents a reassuring foothold of stability in an otherwise unpredictable world. Either that or millions of people like to point and laugh at losers.

I don’t think that’s true. Unlike BB, X Factor treats its subjects with warmth and good humor no matter how nutty they may be. Maybe that’s because they’re not on our TV screens every day for 13 weeks running, though!

I caught a clip the other day of Trevor Hodgson (wimpy teenager from last year with an amazing voice) at the auditions. He looks a hell of a lot more mature this year. It’s great to see this kind of continuity between each series and again, unlike BB the contestants are generally talented. And even the ones who aren’t participate in good fun.

Anyway, Brooker has conceived of a game to play during the audition process – you have to spot the X Factor cliche. Here are a few examples:

• Deadpan Simon Cowell put-down that doesn’t include the word “worst” – 50 points.
• Leering sexual remark from Sharon Osbourne – two points.
• Kate Thornton embraces blubbing rejectee – one point. (Additional point if it all goes slow-motion and they put a bit of Coldplay over the top of it.)

Despite the unnecessary criticism, the game might actually be worth a go. I’ve opened a thread on the forum if you want to play along with us! See if you can spot any cliches NOT on Brooker’s list!