X Factor Italy 2026 enters second audition episode

The twentieth season of X Factor Italy is underway, with the second episode of the Auditions scheduled to air on September 17 on Sky Uno and NOW. Hosted by Giorgia, the judging panel for the 2026 season includes Francesco Gabbani, Irama, Jake La Furia, and Paola Iezzi. Irama makes his debut on the panel, replacing Achille Lauro, while Iezzi returns as the defending champion from the 2025 edition.

During the premiere, a moment of tension occurred when the contestants Sad Twins received four ‘no’ votes from the judges. Before exiting the stage, the duo made a comment regarding judge Paola Iezzi’s age, sparking discussion on social media.

The Auditions phase, which spans the first three episodes, requires contestants to receive at least three ‘yes’ votes from the four judges to advance to the Bootcamp stage.