David Miller Leaves X-Factor Hungary Key Reasons Behind Exit Revealed

Hungary’s most popular televised talent competition, X-Faktor, is undergoing a major transformation as two of its longest-serving hosts announce their departure. Miller Dávid and Pápai Joci, who have become synonymous with the show over the past four seasons, confirmed their exits in separate interviews with Hungarian media, signaling the end of an era for the RTL-produced series.

Four Seasons and a Farewell

Miller Dávid, whose name has been closely associated with X-Faktor since 2022, revealed his decision in an interview with the RTL program Fókusz, which first announced his arrival to the show four years ago. “I won’t be hosting the 2026 season of X-Faktor,” he stated, framing the move as a natural progression rather than a sudden break. Over five years, he hosted four seasons of the competition—more than any other presenter in the show’s history. “I felt like I’d come full circle,” he explained. “After so many years, I needed a change.”

His departure follows an exceptionally busy period. In 2025 alone, Miller appeared in three separate RTL programs: X-Faktor, the second season of LEGO Masters, and Sztárbox, a celebrity boxing series. The relentless schedule took a toll. “I was mentally and physically exhausted,” he admitted. While he won’t be returning to the talent show, he remains under contract with RTL, with plans to star in the upcoming streaming series Birodalom (Empire), set to premiere on RTL+ in May 2026. The drama, created by the team behind the award-winning A Király, explores the adult film industry of the 1990s, focusing on human stories rather than sensationalism.

Pápai Joci Also Steps Away

Miller is not leaving alone. Pápai Joci, the Eurovision Song Contest veteran and co-host of X-Faktor, is also exiting the show. While he has not given as detailed an explanation as Miller, his departure was confirmed in the same Fókusz segment. The two have shared hosting duties since 2023, forming a dynamic duo that helped modernize the show’s format and expand its audience.

Their exits mark the second major overhaul for X-Faktor in recent years. In 2025, the show’s mentor panel was revamped, with several long-standing judges replaced by new faces. With both hosts and much of the judging team now changing, the 2026 season will effectively launch with an entirely new on-screen lineup. RTL has not yet announced replacements, but the network teased that the new hosts will be revealed in the April 30 episode of Fókusz.

A Show in Transition

X-Faktor has been a cornerstone of Hungarian television since its debut in 2010, modeled after the global The X Factor franchise. The show has launched the careers of numerous Hungarian pop stars, including ByeAlex, Gigi Radics, and the 2024 winner, Zsófi Tóth. Miller and Pápai’s tenure coincided with a period of renewed popularity for the series, as it adapted to changing viewer habits by expanding its digital presence through RTL+ and social media.

Their departures come at a time when Hungarian television is navigating a broader shift. RTL, the country’s largest commercial broadcaster, has been restructuring its programming to prioritize streaming content and younger audiences. The network’s decision to keep Miller on board for Birodalom—a prestige drama rather than a live competition—reflects this strategic pivot. Meanwhile, Pápai’s future plans remain unclear, though industry observers speculate he may return to music or pursue other entertainment projects.

What’s Next for X-Faktor?

RTL has remained tight-lipped about the show’s future beyond the host announcement. However, sources close to the production suggest the network is considering several changes to reinvigorate the format. These may include a shorter season, a greater emphasis on digital engagement, and a renewed focus on mentorship over spectacle. The show’s producers have also hinted at potential collaborations with international X Factor franchises, though no concrete plans have been confirmed.

For now, fans are left to reflect on Miller and Pápai’s contributions. Miller, in particular, became known for his charismatic and often humorous hosting style, which resonated with younger viewers. His ability to balance professionalism with relatability helped X-Faktor maintain its relevance in an increasingly crowded entertainment landscape. As he prepares for his next role, he expressed gratitude for the experience. “I’ll always be proud of what we built,” he told Fókusz. “But it’s time for someone else to take the stage.”

The 2026 season of X-Faktor is expected to premiere in September, with auditions already underway. Until then, viewers can catch Miller in Birodalom, which debuts on RTL+ on May 15, 2026.