Fox orders another season of 'The X Factor'

Simon Cowell "couldn't be happier."

Fox just announced it has ordered Season 3 of The X Factor. Mike Darnell, president of alternative entertainment for Fox, praised the show as being "absolutely fantastic."

Season to date, The X Factor is averaging a 3.9 rating among adults 18-49 and 10.6 million total viewers.

Cowell says in the announcement that, along with being happy, he wants to thank fans and sponsors. He adds, "Our main commitment will always be to find great talent, and let's not forget, we are now days away from our first live shows. The gloves are off! Expect fireworks!"

Following schedule changes due to the rain-delayed MLB NLCS game last week, The X Factor will air the conclusion of the Judges' Homes round on Tuesday at 9:30 p.m. The 16 advancing acts will be revealed.

Next week, the top 16 acts will perform on a special live 2½-hour show, hosted by Khloé Kardashian Odom and Mario Lopez, on Nov. 1 (8-10:30 p.m. ET live/PT tape-delayed). The X Factor live shows continue next on Nov. 4, with additional performances and the announcement of the Season Two finalists.