Mario Lopez to return as host of 'The X Factor' on FOX

Actor and television personality Mario Lopez will return as the host of "The X Factor." He joins judges Simon Cowell and Demi Lovato on the hit singing competition series, which launches its third season this fall on FOX.

Lopez first joined "The X Factor" last season as a host. He began his career in entertainment as a young actor and has appeared in TV, film and on Broadway. He currently hosts the entertainment news magazine show "Extra."

"I'm looking forward to returning to 'The X Factor' team," Lopez said. "We're coming back stronger and better than ever and I'm excited to check out all the new talent."

"I'm thrilled Mario is back for season three of 'The X Factor,' " Cowell said. "Hosting a live show and keeping the judges - especially Demi - in line, is not an easy job, but Mario is a pro and we are glad he's coming back." 

Open auditions for season three of "The X Factor" continue on Long Island, at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum on April 25; and in Denver, at the Denver Coliseum on May 14. For details, visit www.TheXFactorUSA.com.

Lopez is the host of the nationally syndicated entertainment news show, "Extra."He also is the host of the nationwide Clear Channel radio show "On with Mario Lopez." An avid boxing fan, he is a recurring commentator on HBO's boxing programs and he recently produced a documentary based on the sport, titled "Champ."

Lopez is a New York Times best-selling author for his healthy eating guide, "Extra Lean." In May 2011, he released the follow-up to "Extra Lean," titled "Extra Lean Family." Additionally, Lopez wrote "Mario Lopez's Knockout Fitness," a best-selling fitness book that offers readers a look into his impressive workout regime, and "Mud Tacos," a children's' book he co-authored with his sister, Marissa. As a follow-up to "Mud Tacos," Lopez released "Mario & Baby Gia," a children's book he wrote for his daughter Gia.

Last year, Tate Stevens was crowned "The X Factor" season two winner and was awarded a recording contract, as well as production and creative support to develop, create, record and shoot his first original track and music video. Tate's video debuted as a Pepsi commercial during the live telecast of the 55th Annual Grammy Awards, and he recently released his first single, "Power of a Love Song." His self-titled debut album will be released on April 23.

Along with Stevens, "The X Factor" discovered diverse recording artists such as finalists Carly Rose Sonenclar, Fifth Harmony and Emblem3, all of whom also are working on their debut albums. Emblem3 has just released their debut single, "Chloe (You're The One I Want)" and are on a "Goin' Back 2 Cali" fan road trip with stops in nine cities across the U.S., including Philadelphia, Houston, Phoenix and Las Vegas. "The X Factor" brand has created global superstars, such as Leona Lewis, One Direction, Cher Lloyd, Olly Murs and JLS. Artists discovered by the competition series have sold more than 100 million records worldwide, with 110 No. 1's, 270 Top 10 records and 500 Top 50 releases. "The X Factor" (USA) is now aired in 191 countries, and local versions of "The X Factor" are now commissioned in 41 territories.