Teen heart-throbs One Direction will give The X Factor ratings boost on Saturday by appearing on the show.
The ITV series begins the run of live episodes this weekend and bands normally appear and perform their new singles on the Sunday results show.
But Simon Cowell and show execs are getting One Direction on stage on Saturday to help make sure millions of their fans stay in and watch, so they can beat rivals Strictly Come Dancing in the ratings.
The boys will be interviewed by Dermot O’Leary and will also hand out advice to the acts backstage about performing live for the first time on the huge stage at London's Fountain Studios in Wembley.
A show source said: “X Factor is where is all began for One Direction so it makes sense for them to come back and perform.
"Making an appearance on Saturday means they are the secret weapon that could tip the balance in the ratings war.
“They’ve also said they’ll act like extra mentors backstage for this first weekend.
“Strictly have got some big names, but nothing as big as One Direction.
"It is going to be a colourful and action-packed first show and we are confident everyone will be talking about The X Factor after Saturday night.”
One Direction are expected to perform their new single Live While We’re Young on X Factor at a later date.
The results show on Sunday will feature a performance by Leona Lewis.
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