Simon Cowell Explains Why He'll Let 12-Year-Old Performers on 'X-Factor'-Zimbio

When Simon Cowell was on American Idol, contestants needed to be at least 18 years old to compete. Now, Cowell, says, he's looking forward to seeing what younger kids can do in his upcoming show X Factor.

"I like the idea that a 12-year-old on this show can compete with an older singer and a singing group," said Cowell, speaking toUs Weekly. "I've never believed there should be a cut-off age for talent, and we are going to put our money where our mouths are with the $5 million recording contract."

Cowell is putting out the call for new talent, annoucning this morning that open auditions in Los Angeles March 27.

Cowell has already produced a British version of the show, which has been massive hit in the U.K. for almost seven years years now, but he's eager to see what happens in America. Said Cowell: "I'm doing this show in America because I genuinely believe we can find a superstar."