Cowell explains eye roll on 'Idol'

Simon Cowell has vehemently denied that he rolled his eyes at a tribute to the victims of the Virginia Tech massacre.

American Idol contestant Chris Robinson sent the message to his friends in Virginia, saying: "My hearts and prayers go out to Virginia Tech. I have a lot of friends over there... Be strong". At this point the camera panned to Cowell, who appeared to roll his eyes in boredom.

However, the judge insists his actions were in response to a comment Paula Abdul made to him during Robinson's speech, and admits he did not even hear anything the contestant was saying. "I may not be the nicest person in the world, but I would never disrespect those families or victims," he said.