Simon Cowell has begun his latest assault on US television with some new information for ‘X Factor’ auditionees.

In a promotional video, which has just been released, Cowell explains the premise of the TV show for American viewers and reveals the auditions will be filmed in front of a live audience. He also confirms the prize at stake will be $5 million in cash.

Auditions for ‘The X Factor’ begin on March 27th in Los Angeles and will also be held in Seattle, Chicago, New Jersey, Dallas and Miami. 

 Watch Simon’s introduction to ‘The X Factor’ for Americans here: