BBC 'planning Next Stage talent show'

The BBC is reportedly launching a new singing competition for "undiscovered talent".

The broadcaster is expected to film a pilot for \'The Next Stage\' very soon, and the programme could fill the gap being left by \'The X Factor\' as Simon Cowell\'s talent show is taking a break for 2020.

Producers are said to want "original and passionate singer/songwriters" to apply to "showcase their songs to the nation", with original material encouraged alongside "unique covers of their favourite hits".

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A source told the Daily Mirror newspaper: "The aim is find undiscovered talent who need a leg-up on their way to launching a music career.

"It doesn\'t matter if they are a solo artist or a band, we\'re keen to hear from everyone from all musical genres and backgrounds."

BBC Studios is planning the pilot, and if it is a success it is said the show could air on Saturday nights.

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The news comes after media mogul Simon confirmed \'X Factor\' would be rested for 2020 as the team try to find a way to breathe new life into the flagging format.

He recently explained: "I thought, since it is 2020, a new decade, we have to rest it for a year.

"We have to come back with a show that is relevant, different, a show that takes into account all the different things kids are watching and being influenced by.

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"As well as the evolution of \'The X Factor\', I\'ve got two new talent shows we\'re launching in the next 12 months. One, in particular, I do think is our best one yet."

An ITV spokesperson previously stressed that bosses are still working on their schedule for the rest of the year.

They said: "Plans for this autumn are still being finalised and will be announced in due course. We are currently filming Britain\'s Got Talent 2020."