'The Voice' pick-up defended by BBC One controller

[dutchman]

BBC One controller Danny Cohen has defended the decision to pick up new music talent show The Voice.



Based on a Dutch format, a US version of the contest - featuring judges Christina Aguilera and Cee Lo Green - has already proven a hit for NBC.

Dismissing comparisons to The X Factor, Cohen told attendees at a recent BAFTA event: "We feel that there's enough difference in this format that it will stand out.

"The fact that ITV tried very hard to get it - even though they've got The X Factor - suggests that they feel this show is different enough [from that one]."

Cohen also revealed that he is eager to provide more variety in BBC One's entertainment lineup.

"We've got three dancing shows on BBC One this year on Saturday nights, and I wanted to decrease that," he explained. "But still find ways that we could have live, often performance-based television."

He added: "We are in an era where the audience love that [and] we shouldn't ignore what the audience want."

Jessie J has been confirmed as the first coach on the UK version of The Voice. The winner of the talent contest will sign a record contract with Universal.

The Voice will debut on BBC One in 2012.