Cowell wanted Pierson for 'Talent'

Simon Cowell considered hiring Emma Pierson for the new series of Britain's Got Talent, he has confirmed.

The music mogul wanted the Hotel Babylon actress to join the judging panel alongside Piers Morgan, Amanda Holden and himself.

Show producers eventually decided to recruit Kelly Brook as a fourth judge, but she was axed after just six days.

Speaking to the Daily Star, Cowell explained: "[Emma's] very sexy and talented so I went to meet her in L.A. I guess it was kind of a job interview."

He added: "Emma is first and foremost an actress but I really wanted her to come on the show. I wanted to move her to the next step.

"Of course it didn't work out - we got Kelly and then we had to let her go. I don't know what would have happened if Emma had joined."

Cowell has previously stated that he accepts responsibility for Brook's short-lived stint on the programme.