'Popstars' and 'Pop Idol' proved a massive hit for ITV, drawing in millions of viewers and giving a much-needed boost to its advertising fortunes.
The 'Pop Idol' final attracted nearly 13m viewers, giving it a massive ratings victory over the BBC.
The new series of 'Popstars' will incorporate some of the features of the more recent search for a solo star 'Pop Idol', which allowed the public rather than a music industry jury to vote for the winners.
The decision to allow the public to vote for the winning band is a radical move away from the original format, which left the decision in the hands of judges including "nasty" Nigel Lythgoe and Nicki Chapman, who went on to judge 'Pop Idol'.
The new system will see viewers vote for their favourite contestants in a way similar to how the public voted Will Young the winner of 'Pop Idol'.
Young has since had a number one hit, as has the runner-up Gareth Gates, and they are both expected to go on to release further chart-topping hits. The 10 finalists have also released an album of big band hits.
Meanwhile, although Hear'Say had initial success the band failed to sustain their popularity and their last album 'Everybody' was considered a flop. Original band member Kym March left after continued rows with other band members.
She has since been replaced by Johnny Shentall, but the band has had to shelve its tour so they could change dance routines and performances to suit the new line-up.
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