'She's a singer right?' Cheryl Cole's US hopes dealt a new blow as Jennifer Lopez admits she 'doesn't know much about her'

By SARA NATHAN and LIZ THOMAS

Snub: Jennifer Lopez has admitted she'd never heard of Cheryl Cole in a new interview


Jennifer Lopez has dealt Cheryl Cole’s hopes of hitting the big time in the U.S. a blow after admitting she doesn’t know much about the British singer.

Miss Cole is poised to take a role on the American version of The X Factor which Simon Cowell is launching later this year, but executives are worried the star simply does not have a high enough profile.

Show insiders said that the 27-year-old Girls Aloud singer is set to take a role on the new programme in a multi-million pound deal but there has been some anguish about whether viewers will know who she is or be able to understand the Geordie star’s accent.

Miss Lopez, 41, who is a judge on rival show American Idol, has now twisted the knife by admitting she knows very little about Miss Cole and was not even sure what she did for a living.

‘Someone mentioned [Cheryl] to me yesterday,’ Miss Lopez told Fabulous magazine.
‘She is a singer, right?


Hopeful: Cheryl, pictured at the Prince's Trust awards in London last week, is set to appear on the U.S. X Factor


Giving her a role on his new American version of The X Factor is a gamble for Cowell – who is determined that the show will be a hit.

He so far only formally named one judge to appear on the panel - record executive and music producer Antonio ‘L.A.’ Reid.

He has helped launch the careers of stars including Mariah Carey, Pink, Rihanna, Kanye West and Justin Bieber.

Singers Nicole Scherzinger, Katy Perry, Mariah Carey, rapper Nicki Minaj and George Michael have been among the names also touted to join.


Rival: Lopez is a judge on rival programme American Idol


Auditions for the series began today with around 18,000 hopefuls descending on Los Angeles in a bid to become a star.

Cowell has a difficult task ahead of him as rival show American Idol which has big name stars Miss Lopez, Randy Jackson and Aerosmith’s Steve Tyler on the panel, remains the most watched programme in the U.S. pulling in as much as 30 million viewers an episode.

Cowell, 51, used to be a judge but quit to launch The X Factor there.

The winner of the show will receive a Sony Music recording contract worth $5million - which is far higher than the £1million deal offered on the British show.


Not famous enough for U.S. TV? Jennifer admitted she didn't know Cheryl's music but 'would be happy to learn about it,' but her ignorance underlines X Factor producers' concerns


Miss Lopez , who has a music and merchandise empire worth £150million, said joining the judging panel on American Idol had boosted her popularity.

She said: ‘I think it is helping to show people the real me for the first time. It’s funny because I always knew that person was there - it’s just that no one else did!
‘I guess I was always a character, either with a script in a movie or performing a song on the stage, and people never saw the human side of me. Now viewers can see that I’m emotional and passionate and human.’


source: dailymail

BFFs Cher Lloyd and Katie Waissel get mobbed by fans during a Nottingham shopping spree

By DAILY MAIL REPORTER


Fan frenzy: Cher Lloyd and Katie Waissel are bombarded with fans during their shopping trip in Nottingham


Cher Lloyd and Katie Waissel have had their ups and downs throughout their X Factor friendship but the girls looked like BFFs during their latest girls’ day out.

The singers decided to hit the shops in Nottingham while on a break from their X Factor tour to top up their spring wardrobes.

And their popularity seems to be stronger than ever as they were mobbed by a group of young fans on the street.

It was no surprise that their fans spotted the girls, as their hair and outfits were definitely aimed at grabbing attention.

Cher’s fiery red locks were as fluorescent as ever, while Katie’s do was her usual bleach blonde shade, which she accessorised with a floral bandanna.


Spring wardrobes: The X Factor girls left their winter coats at home and stepped out for some spring sunshine


And Cher, 17, tried to quash concerns over her weight by wearing an oversized top with an animated burger printed on it.

But despite her apparent love for burgers, the talent show star accentuated her stick thin legs with a pair of skin tight stone-wash jeans.


Fellow shopper: Niall Horan from One Direction proved that boys can shop too as he popped into the Jack Wills store


Meanwhile, 24-year-old Katie also showed off her pins in black skinny jeans and a brown and black striped top.

The friends had changed their outfits from their morning ensembles, which saw Cher wearing a pair of blue tracksuit bottoms and a Jack Wills T-shirt and Katie sporting a different T-shirt than her afternoon selection.

And One Direction’s Niall Horan also made a stop into Jack Wills to go shopping, while wearing a T-Shirt branded with ‘EFF OFF’ across his chest.

The girls made the most of the warm spring day by strolling around in the sunshine chatting to their fans.


Cheeky T: Niall's T-Shirt was branded with 'EFF OFF' across his chest


Goofing around: The BFFs giggled together on their day off from the X Factor tour


And after finishing their Nottingham performance with their fellow former X Factor contestants, the group will hit Newcastle upon Tyne on Friday, Aberdeen on Sunday and Glasgow and Cardiff next week.

During last year’s ITV talent show, Katie and Cher faced several rows and at one point were not on speaking terms due to Katie’s reported diva-like behaviour.

While Katie thought Cher was getting preferential treatment by their mentor Cheryl Cole, but since the show ended in December, the girls have become close allies.


Quick change: The girls were spotted in different ensembles earlier in the day and then quickly changed before hitting the shops


One Direction Grenade LIVE X Factor Tour O2 Arena London


source: dailymail

BFFs Cher Lloyd and Katie Waissel get mobbed by fans during a Nottingham shopping spree

By DAILY MAIL REPORTER


Fan frenzy: Cher Lloyd and Katie Waissel are bombarded with fans during their shopping trip in Nottingham


Cher Lloyd and Katie Waissel have had their ups and downs throughout their X Factor friendship but the girls looked like BFFs during their latest girls’ day out.

The singers decided to hit the shops in Nottingham while on a break from their X Factor tour to top up their spring wardrobes.

And their popularity seems to be stronger than ever as they were mobbed by a group of young fans on the street.

It was no surprise that their fans spotted the girls, as their hair and outfits were definitely aimed at grabbing attention.

Cher’s fiery red locks were as fluorescent as ever, while Katie’s do was her usual bleach blonde shade, which she accessorised with a floral bandanna.


Spring wardrobes: The X Factor girls left their winter coats at home and stepped out for some spring sunshine


And Cher, 17, tried to quash concerns over her weight by wearing an oversized top with an animated burger printed on it.

But despite her apparent love for burgers, the talent show star accentuated her stick thin legs with a pair of skin tight stone-wash jeans.


Fellow shopper: Niall Horan from One Direction proved that boys can shop too as he popped into the Jack Wills store


Meanwhile, 24-year-old Katie also showed off her pins in black skinny jeans and a brown and black striped top.

The friends had changed their outfits from their morning ensembles, which saw Cher wearing a pair of blue tracksuit bottoms and a Jack Wills T-shirt and Katie sporting a different T-shirt than her afternoon selection.

And One Direction’s Niall Horan also made a stop into Jack Wills to go shopping, while wearing a T-Shirt branded with ‘EFF OFF’ across his chest.

The girls made the most of the warm spring day by strolling around in the sunshine chatting to their fans.


Cheeky T: Niall's T-Shirt was branded with 'EFF OFF' across his chest


Goofing around: The BFFs giggled together on their day off from the X Factor tour


And after finishing their Nottingham performance with their fellow former X Factor contestants, the group will hit Newcastle upon Tyne on Friday, Aberdeen on Sunday and Glasgow and Cardiff next week.

During last year’s ITV talent show, Katie and Cher faced several rows and at one point were not on speaking terms due to Katie’s reported diva-like behaviour.

While Katie thought Cher was getting preferential treatment by their mentor Cheryl Cole, but since the show ended in December, the girls have become close allies.


Quick change: The girls were spotted in different ensembles earlier in the day and then quickly changed before hitting the shops


One Direction Grenade LIVE X Factor Tour O2 Arena London


source: dailymail

It's a yes from me! 'Simon Cowell secures judging role for Cheryl Cole on X Factor U.S.A and lines Nicole Scherzinger up as host'

By SARAH FITZMAURICE

Pulling stings: Simon Cowell is said to have persuaded TV executives to include Cheryl Cole as a judge on the U.S. version of the show according to reports


TV executives were said to have ruled her out from the lineup of the U.S. version of the X Factor over concerns regarding her strong Geordie accent and lack of profile in America.

But today reports have emerged that Cheryl Cole will be taking a seat next to Simon Cowell and the music mogul is said to have convinced FOX bosses about the former Girls Aloud singer.

Meanwhile it has also been alleged that Nicole Scherzinger, who was a hot favourite for the judging role, will also said to be taking part in the show – as the host.

‘On the judging front things are changing almost daily but Simon has put his neck on the line to sell Cheryl to network bosses,’ a source told The Daily Mirror.

‘After being stonewalled initially Simon believes he has convinced them to sign off her deal.’

Former Pussycat Doll Nicole was said to be lined up for a judging role on the U.K. version of the show, after impressing as a temporary judge when Cheryl was off ill with malaria last year.


New host: Nicole Scherzinger who was said to have been considered as a judge on the both the U.S. and the U.K. versions of the show is now said to be gearing up to host the American version of the show


But the Poison singer is said to be joining the Stateside version of the show after Simon, 51, negotiated a deal with her record label to allow her to appear on the show.

‘Nicole’s had screen tests and is a natural in front of the camera. Autocue does not faze her at all,’ a source told the paper.

They added: ‘As an established singer, both as a solo artist and in a group, Nicole will be great with the contestants and she knows what she is talking about.’


New recruit: Antonio 'L.A'Reid, pictured her with Rihanna in 2009, is said to be joining the American X Factor panel


While nothing has been formally signed by the girls it has been confirmed that music producer Anotonia ‘L.A.’ Reid will make up part of the judging panel.

In a statement released last week Simon Cowell said that the 54-year-old was his ‘number one choice’ for the role.

The 54-year-old has had an impressive career in the music industry and has helped to launch the careers of Mariah Carey, Pink, Rihanna, Kayne West and Justin Bieber.

While Reid was confirmed as a judge, rapper Nicki Minaj was also said to be being considered for a judging role on the show.

Katy Perry, Mariah Carey and Paula Abdul have all thought to have been considered as a judge of the U.S. version of the show.

A spokesperson for Simon Cowell was unavailable for comment this morning.

source: dailymail

Cher Lloyd shows off her cropped new hairdo as she embraces 'Harajuku' style

By DAILY MAIL REPORTER

Going east? Cher Lloyd appears to have embraced Japanese street style in her latest fashion statement in Manchester


She's already been accused of copying her mentor Cheryl Cole and superstar Rihanna.

But now it appears Cher Lloyd may be looking further afield for fashion inspiration - the 'Harajuku' street-style of Japan.

Spotted leaving her hotel in Manchester in between her matinee and evening performances on The X Factor Live Tour, the 17-year-old debuted a shorter new hairstyle.

Her hair extensions had apparently been removed and replaced by a blunt red bob.

She teamed her attention-seeking hair with a clashing ensemble of patterned floral skirt, grey tights, orange ankle socks white blouse, grey Mackintosh and cream heeled loafers.

The unusual style appeared reminiscent of the street fashion of the Harajuku suburb of Tokyo.

Japanese teens who follow the Harajuku movement like to combine a variety of different dress styles, including Gothic Lolita, Visual Kei and Decora.


A style of many colours: The 17-year-old opted for red, grey, white, black, orange, cream and a multi-coloured skirt


American pop star Gwen Stefani popularised the style outside of Japan with her dance troupe of 'Harajuku Girls', who accompanied her during her Love. Angel. Music. Baby. album in 2004.

On Thursday, Miss Lloyd was also attracting attention for her questionable make-up when she matched her bright red hair with the same shade of lipstick.

The Worcestershire-native had been shopping in Liverpool city centre with a group of friends after performing in the city earlier that week.

However she missed Tuesday's gig at the city's Arena after falling ill.


Double bill: After recovering from a throat infection earlier in the week, Cher performed twice at the Manchester Arena


Despite being offered refunds, it appears most of the fans were content to attend the concert, with Scouser Rebecca Ferguson receiving the biggest cheers of the night.

Liverpool Echo's critic Jade Wright said: 'Cher was on the bill, but cancelled due to a throat infection. Fans were offered a refund before the show, but judging from the crowds inside, few returned their tickets.'


Inspiration: Gwen Stefani and her Harajuku Girls in 2004


Earlier this week, she unveiled her eighth tattoo - a tribute to her father.

She had the word 'Daddy' and a heart placed on her right hand, in addition to another tribute to her late uncle last week.

At 17-years-old she is still under the legal age to have a tattoo although she now has quite a collection of different designs all over her body.

The teenage singer has not left her mother Diane out from her permanent tributes and she has the lyrics from a Tracy Chapman All That I have Is Your Soul song, which is her mother’s favourite track, on her left arm.

Cher also has a bird carrying a ribbon and a birdcage on her forearms in memory of her uncle Edward 'Boo Boo' Smith, who died last September after being tricked into taking a heroin substitute.


Make-up faux pas: Cher matched her bright hair with equally loud lipstick in Liverpool on Thursday


Cher Lloyd Manchester Tour 12.03.11


source: dailymail

Off to the circus? Cher Lloyd clowns around with her red hair and matching lipstick

By DAILY MAIL REPORTER

Clowning around: Cher Lloyd's bright red hair clashed with orangey red lipstick as she shopped in Liverpool today


She's been a regular feature in the media since her first X Factor audition last year.

But shopping in Liverpool today, the teenager looked like she was auditioning for the circus with her red hair and bright lipstick.

The clashing colours and her stripey jumper made the 17-year-old look slightly clown-like.

Lloyd dyed her hair last month the exact same shade as famous clown Ronald McDonald.
Despite suffering a throat infection earlier in the week, Cher looked in good spirits today as she shopped with friends at the Liverpool 1 shopping centre.

Perhaps picking up some presents for her father Darren's birthday, Lloyd spent up a storm in Bank, Kiehl's and Chanel.

And in a sign she has already netted a lucrative salary since appearing on the X Factor, Miss Lloyd was wearing Vivienne Westwood earrings.


Shop til you drop: Cher spent some of her newfound fortune as Chanel, Kiehl's and Bank at Liverpool One


Writing on her Twitter today, she said: 'Happy birthday Daddy!'

The Worcestershire-native has been staying in Liverpool all week as part of The X Factor Live tour.

However she missed Tuesday's gig at the city's Arena after falling ill.


A present for dad? Cher Tweeted it was her father Darren's birthday today


Despite being offered refunds, it appears most of the fans were content to attend the concert, with Scouser Rebecca Ferguson receiving the biggest cheers of the night.

Liverpool Echo's critic Jade Wright said: 'Cher was on the bill, but cancelled due to a throat infection. Fans were offered a refund before the show, but judging from the crowds inside, few returned their tickets.'


Style stealer: Was Cher inspired by Ronald McDonald's red hair and matching lipstick?


Cher has now got a few days off before the next gig in Manchester on Saturday.
Earlier this week, she unveiled her eighth tattoo - a tribute to her father.
She had the word 'Daddy' and a heart placed on her right hand, in addition to another tribute to her late uncle last week.

At 17-years-old she is still under the legal age to have a tattoo although she now has quite a collection of different designs all over her body.

The teenage singer has not left her mother Diane out from her permanent tributes and she has the lyrics from a Tracy Chapman All That I have Is Your Soul song, which is her mother’s favourite track, on her left arm.

Cher also has a bird carrying a ribbon and a birdcage on her forearms in memory of her uncle Edward 'Boo Boo' Smith, who died last September after being tricked into taking a heroin substitute.


Entourage: The 17-year-old was surrounded by a group of friends as she shopped


Cher Lloyd X Factor Tour Teaser


Cher Lloyd sings Girlfriend X Factor Live Tour 2011 @ Motorpoint Arena, Sheffield 2-3-2011


source: dailymail

Off to the circus? Cher Lloyd clowns around with her red hair and matching lipstick

By DAILY MAIL REPORTER

Clowning around: Cher Lloyd's bright red hair clashed with orangey red lipstick as she shopped in Liverpool today


She's been a regular feature in the media since her first X Factor audition last year.

But shopping in Liverpool today, the teenager looked like she was auditioning for the circus with her red hair and bright lipstick.

The clashing colours and her stripey jumper made the 17-year-old look slightly clown-like.

Lloyd dyed her hair last month the exact same shade as famous clown Ronald McDonald.
Despite suffering a throat infection earlier in the week, Cher looked in good spirits today as she shopped with friends at the Liverpool 1 shopping centre.

Perhaps picking up some presents for her father Darren's birthday, Lloyd spent up a storm in Bank, Kiehl's and Chanel.

And in a sign she has already netted a lucrative salary since appearing on the X Factor, Miss Lloyd was wearing Vivienne Westwood earrings.


Shop til you drop: Cher spent some of her newfound fortune as Chanel, Kiehl's and Bank at Liverpool One


Writing on her Twitter today, she said: 'Happy birthday Daddy!'

The Worcestershire-native has been staying in Liverpool all week as part of The X Factor Live tour.

However she missed Tuesday's gig at the city's Arena after falling ill.


A present for dad? Cher Tweeted it was her father Darren's birthday today


Despite being offered refunds, it appears most of the fans were content to attend the concert, with Scouser Rebecca Ferguson receiving the biggest cheers of the night.

Liverpool Echo's critic Jade Wright said: 'Cher was on the bill, but cancelled due to a throat infection. Fans were offered a refund before the show, but judging from the crowds inside, few returned their tickets.'


Style stealer: Was Cher inspired by Ronald McDonald's red hair and matching lipstick?


Cher has now got a few days off before the next gig in Manchester on Saturday.
Earlier this week, she unveiled her eighth tattoo - a tribute to her father.
She had the word 'Daddy' and a heart placed on her right hand, in addition to another tribute to her late uncle last week.

At 17-years-old she is still under the legal age to have a tattoo although she now has quite a collection of different designs all over her body.

The teenage singer has not left her mother Diane out from her permanent tributes and she has the lyrics from a Tracy Chapman All That I have Is Your Soul song, which is her mother’s favourite track, on her left arm.

Cher also has a bird carrying a ribbon and a birdcage on her forearms in memory of her uncle Edward 'Boo Boo' Smith, who died last September after being tricked into taking a heroin substitute.


Entourage: The 17-year-old was surrounded by a group of friends as she shopped


Cher Lloyd X Factor Tour Teaser


Cher Lloyd sings Girlfriend X Factor Live Tour 2011 @ Motorpoint Arena, Sheffield 2-3-2011


source: dailymail

Waissel's hit the big time

By GEORGINA LITTLEJOHN

where are you two going? Katie and James arrive back at her hotel after their party night out


She might be the sweet and butter-wouldn't-melt pop star on stage.

But once the lights have gone down and the audience has gone home, Katie Waissel is just a rock chick at heart.

And no true party girl would be without a DJ on her arm

Katie, 24, was snapped in the small hours of the morning arriving back at her hotel in Liverpool with DJ James Massing, an old family friend, after a night at the city's Bumper nightclub.

And although it is unclear whether the pair are an item, they clutched each other's hands as they walked past the cameras and into the hotel.


I'm free! With fellow singer Rebecca Ferguson behind her Katie looks delighted to be heading out to let her hair down


James is a dance music DJ and producer who also DJs at private parties for celebrities such as Tinie Tempah and Pixie Lott and was believed to have been playing at the Bumper club last night.

Katie is in Liverpool on tour with her fellow X Factor finalists as they play three nights at the Echo Arena.

They play there tonight and tomorrow before heading on to Manchester this weekend for two dates at the MEN Arena.

But last night, Katie decided to let her hair down with a night on the tiles at the live music venue.

And partying is not just thirsty work that requires a large bottle of bourbon, but she was also feeling peckish as she carried a pizza box back to her hotel.


Vision in blue: Katie sat crossed legged on the stage as she wowed the Liverpool fans with a ballad during last night's gig


Power to the purple: Paige Richardson and Wagner sported shiny outfits on stage


And earlier in the evening, she took to her Twitter page and wrote: 'At bumper with the gorgeous @djjamesmassing rock on Liverpool!!'

Katie is joined on the tour by Rebecca Ferguson, Mary Byrne, One Direction, Wagner, Paige Richardson and winner Matt Cardle.

They are touring for another month and will also play in Glasgow, Nottingham and Brighton before wrapping it up in Cardiff.


Hometown honey: Liverpool-born Rebecca Ferguson looked stunning in her little black dress as she belted out a tune


The boys are here: One Direction sent their fans into a frenzy with their set


Katie Waissel X Factor live tour wembeley arena



source: dailymail

Daddy's girl: Cher Lloyd shows off her EIGHTH inking - a tribute to her father

By SARAH FITZMAURICE

Daddy's girl: Cher Lloyd paid tribute to her father with her new tattoo the word Daddy and a heart on her right hand


Just last week she showed off her sixth and seventh tattoos in tribute to her late uncle, but Cher Lloyd has inked her body yet again – this time with the word Daddy and a pink heart etched onto her right hand.

The X Factor singer showed off her eighth tattoo as she took to the stage at Wembley Arena last week and the homage to her father Darren was clearly visible.

The young diva took to the stage with her bright red hair styled into a large quaff and wore a crystal-embellished black jacket, a bright pink bow tied around her waist, a frilly black skirt and leather trousers.


Daddy's girl: Cher Lloyd paid tribute to her father with her new tattoo the word Daddy and a heart on her right hand


At 17-years-old she is still under the legal age to have a tattoo although she now has quite a collection of different designs all over her body.

The teenage singer has not left her mother Diane out from her permanent tributes and she has the lyrics from a Tracy Chapman All That I have Is Your Soul song, which is her mother’s favourite track, on her left arm.

Cher also has a bird carrying a ribbon and a birdcage on her forearms in memory of her uncle Edward 'Boo Boo' Smith, who died last September after being tricked into taking a heroin substitute.


On stage: Cher performed in a black and pink outfit with her red hair styled into a huge quiff. The 17-year-old now has eight tattoos


The singer has a diamond on her right hand as well as lyrics taken from Jay Z and Alicia Keys duet Empire State Of Mind.

'Bolsillo Lleno De Suenos' - which means 'pocketful of dreams' in Spanish - is written along her right arm.

Before appearing on the talent show Cher already had a bow at the base of her back and a musical note on her left hand – similar to mentor Cheryl Cole’s own tattoo.


Paying tribute: Cher posted a photo of her tattoo tribute to her uncle - a bird flying from a cage - on her Twitter page


In an interview last year, Lloyd admitted she loved the comparisons between her and her mentor Cole - who have similar tattoos on their hands.

Lloyd said: 'I admire her fashion, her looks and I even have a tattoo of a musical note like hers on my hand.

'I’m not even old enough to have a tattoo, but I have three. I know it’s naughty.'
She also noted Cowell - who has signed her to his Syco label - doesn't approve of her body art: 'Even though Simon doesn't approve of tattoos the thing is I'm my own person and think it'd be cool to get another one.'


Cher Lloyd - Girlfriend. Wembly March 6th X factor tour





source: dailymail

Simon Cowell says 'peace'

By DAILY MAIL REPORTER

Peace out: Simon Cowell gives love to the cameras as it is suggested that he has yet to sign on to the next UK series of X Factor


ITV’s director of television has suggested that Simon Cowell is yet to sign a deal to appear on this year’s X Factor.

Appearing on Richard Bacon’s Radio 5 Live show this afternoon, Peter Fincham was asked if Cowell would be returning to the judging panel when the new series which begins in the autumn.

He said: ‘It has to remain speculation. The X Factor is coming back and is back in the ITV schedule this autumn. Simon will be closely involved with it as he is always involved with it.

‘I don’t want to sound like an evasive politician, but I’m not in a position to confirm or deny any of the individuals to be sitting in those chairs or on the X Factor this autumn.’

Bacon then asked him: ‘Simon Cowell has yet to agree to appear in the next series?’
Fincham replied: ‘We have an agreement which has been publicly announced for both the X Factor and Britain’s Got Talent. They will be on ITV screen for the next three years.

Cowell was spotted outside his Los Angeles mansion today, and perhaps in a sign of goodwill to the network, flashed a peace sign.


Take good care of her: Simon hands over the keys of his £1million Bugatti Veyron to his personal valet as he heads inside his mansion


In limbo: ITV’s director of television said he was 'not in a position to confirm or deny any of the individuals to be sitting in those chairs or on the X Factor'


He pulled into the driveway of his Los Angeles mansion in his £1million Bugatti Veyron and handed the keys over to his personal valet.

He then flashed a peace sign to the waiting cameras as he made his way into his £15million house.

A short while later, he was back in another of his cars as he took his Bentley convertible for a spin round the Hollywood Hills.

Asked if it would be a disaster if Cowell failed to appear in the UK series, Fincham added: ‘No, of course it wouldn’t and you shouldn’t look at it that way Richard.


Not a care: ITV may be sweating but Simon looked carefree as he went for a spin in his Bentley...


... and looked happy and content as he flashed his trademark peace sign to the cameras


‘The show will be there and when we’re ready to announce who will be on it we will announce who’s on it.’

Simon is in Los Angeles to start proceedings on the U.S. version of the X Factor, with auditions starting in Los Angeles on the 27th of this month.

Reports this weekend have suggested that he has warned Cheryl Cole she may not get a job as one of the judges.

According to The People, Cowell may not be able to persuade the Fox network that Cheryl is the right celebrity for the job and a source told the paper that Simon told her: 'Sorry, but business is business.'


'Still in the running': While Cowell has yet to rule out Cheryl Cole, he hinted that the chosen judge for U.S. X Factor will be a high profile American artist


This week Cowell confirmed that George Michael, former Pussycat Dolls singer Nicole Scherzinger, Mariah Carey and Paula Abdul are all being considered for the show, but no-one has signed on the dotted line as yet.

While Cheryl is understood to be be 'still very much in the running,' Cowell hinted that the chosen judge will be a high profile American artist.

He said: 'It’s not about necessarily the TV show per se, it’s people. You genuinely gotta trust that they’re gonna be able to do the job you’re paying them to do.

'And like I said, a hit-maker who worked in America and has had experience, I think is crucial to this panel as well.'

Of the heavily-pregnant Carey, Cowell said: 'Yeah, I’ve spoken to her. I mean literally, we’ve spoken to lots of people. I’ve spoken to Paula...And then new people come along… [Two days ago], we met somebody who I’ve never met before in my life, who I just loved.


Simon Cowell slams new Idol



source: dailymail