SEXY Cheryl Cole boosted X Factor ratings to an opening-night record of 12.1MILLION.

Foxy Holly Willoughby was also a hit, netting spin-off Xtra Factor a best ever 1.5MILLION audience.

More than half of all TV viewers tuned in to Girls Aloud star Cheryl’s debut as a judge — 1.5million more than in 2007. Simon Cowell said: “We’re back bigger and better than before. It really is the best series we’ve done.”

Simon, 48 — also overjoyed at the draw of ITV2’s Xtra Factor host Holly, 27 — added: “Getting Cheryl on board was brilliant.

“I’m pleased she’s done this. She really is one of the best I’ve worked with. She’s not afraid to speak her mind and most of all she gets it.”

X-rated ... Holly interviews Cheryl on show

Cheryl, 25, tuned in with Girls Aloud pal Kimberley Walsh just before their show in Peterborough.

The figures are a boost for ITV after a run of poor ratings.

An insider said: “Bosses are delighted. It shows there is still a huge appetite for the X Factor, even though it’s the fifth series.”

HOST Dermot O’Leary has been so busy with the show he’s missed Big Brother for the first time.

The pocket-sized hunk, 35, quit Big Brother’s Little Brother this year.

He said: “I was looking forward to watching it as a punter but to be honest I haven’t had the time. I haven’t seen it at all.”

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