‘The X Factor’ UK: Bupsi, Alien Uncovered’s elimination episode has a larger problem…

Everyone knows at this point that there is a ratings dilemma over at ITV for “The X Factor.” However, is it something that has deserved the amount of press that it has received? Probably not, at least not until now.

The results show last night was watched by just 5.6 million viewers, a pretty massive drop from shows earlier this season and further proof that this is just not the franchise that it once was. When Simon Cowell doesn’t even know the names of his own contestants (he called Alien Uncovered Alien Nation before deciding to boot them from the competition), you know you’re in a little bit of a trouble spot. (Bupsi Brown also joined the group in leaving the show.)

We feel like one of the problems with the series by and large is that Simon and company have not figured out what they need to do to get people to watch again. We don’t quite think the issue is something as simple as just figuring out a way to ensure that the judging panel constantly changes. We think that people want some sort of familiarity there so they have something to look forward to.

Instead, we feel like the real issue the show has faced is not doing a good enough job getting you to care about its contestants. Outside of a few soundbytes here and there, how much did you really know about any of the contestants who were in danger of going home? You want people to be compelled to watch their journeys first, and then the judges second.

Want to get our full review of Sunday’s results show? Then be sure to head over here right now, or sign up to get some additional TV news on everything we cover, sent right over to you via our CarterMatt Newsletter. (Photo: ITV.)