Cowell 'rejected scripted put-downs'

Simon Cowell has refused to use scripted jibes on American television, according to his older brother.

Tony Cowell told The Mirror that the music mogul's one-liners on The X Factor and American Idol are the result of his quick-witted nature, rather than advance planning.

"American producers tried to script his put-downs but Simon put them in the bin," Tony explained. "They assumed he rehearsed everything but that's not the case. He's a very confident, naturally witty guy."

On the future of his brother's TV career, Tony added: "He says people will tire of him on the television and he won't let it get to that level. He's very self-deprecating.

"He's very tongue in cheek. When he's off camera, he does take the p*** out of himself. And he will admit he gets some things wrong when he's watching the programmes back."

Cowell is currently filming his fifth X Factor series in the UK and will return to American screens for an eighth Idol season next year.