Simon Cowell's X Factor 'a circus freak show'

Simon Cowell is afraid that the British version of X Factor lacks 'real credibility.'

The music mogul's TV talent show is struggling currently.

Apparently Simon is desperate to spark interest in the programme.

He is considering asking original judges Louis Walsh, Dannii Minogue and Sharon Osbourne to return.

'The first three series relied solely on genuine British talent and a chemistry between the judges that simply hasn't been there since Sharon left,' a source told British newspaper The Sun.

'By series three they had produced an international star with Leona Lewis and the show had real credibility.

'Now it's just a circus freak show with the ringmaster trying to pull the strings on the other side of the Atlantic.'

The show's next season is the final year of X Factor's contract with network ITV1.

Simon believes that going back to the beginning will inject the show with the energy it needs to succeed.

'If Simon can get the original judges and format back he will truly have pulled victory from the jaws of defeat,' the insider said.