Cowell signs new golden handcuffs deal with ITV

Simon Cowell has signed a new golden handcuffs deal keeping him with ITV for another two years.

The contract provides for at least two more series of The X Factor, airing in 2006 and 2007 respectively. Through his production company Syco, Cowell recently announced two other shows for the network - soap/pop reality crossover Soapstar Superstar and a new Saturday night variety series similar to The Gong Show.

“ITV gave me my first break on television and I’m incredibly grateful,??? said Cowell. “We’ve had a fantastic relationship and this was a very easy decision for me to make. I’m looking forward to another successful two years.???

Cowell recently inked a similar deal with FOX, his US broadcast counterpart, tying him to American Idol through 2010.