Simon Cowell second richest on US TV

Simon Cowell has been named as the second highest paid TV star in the US, behind chat show queen Oprah Winfrey.

The X Factor judge has earned £22.5 million thanks to his American Idol franchise, which is shown in 60 countries around the world on top of its Stateside success. Cowell also produces and presents hit US show America's Got Talent.

The music mogul came second to TV host Winfrey, who topped the list with earnings of £130 million from her infamous talk shows.

British actor Hugh Laurie was also listed in the top paid personalities in America, for earning £150,000 for each episode of medical drama House.