Simon Cowell admits he lies to fragile contestants on Britain’s Got Talent

Simon Cowell has admitted he sometimes lies to younger contestants on Britain’s Got Talent so he doesn’t hurt their feelings.

Once infamous for his acid tongue and apparent lack of sympathy for terrible singers on The X Factor, it seems Simon has calmed down over the years.

"Obviously. Sometimes you have to tell what's called 'a kind lie',” Simon explained.

"With a kid dance act, for example, that's not very good ... I obviously can't say what I really think! Especially if they're a bit fragile..."

In the interview with Radio Times, Simon’s co-judge David Walliams insisted he was always 100% completely honest with contestants.

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"That's why I'm the nation's favourite,” David joked. "People don't realise we see about 650 people over the series and only one in four of those people make it on to the TV. So there's a hell of a lot of people who are just mediocre."

Elsewhere in the interview, music mogul Simon said he would love to produce a television leaders debate at the 2020 general election.

He enthused: "I would love to do that! I'd do it in a heartbeat! 100% I'd have walk-ons, music, fire... and a trap door if people didn't like what they said.

"And I'd definitely have a clapometer. I am deadly serious. Can we start a petition? I really would love a chance to do that!"

The next episode of Britain’s Got Talent airs on ITV this Saturday (23rd May) at 8pm.

Photos: ITV Pictures