Simon Cowell

Simon Cowell

Simon Cowell made light of his baby news by declaring he feels like a "very proud daddy"... of 'The X Factor'.

The music mogul - who is expecting his first child with US socialite Lauren Silverman - slipped in through a side door to watch the opening two episodes of the upcoming 10th series of his talent show in central London this afternoon (29.08.13), and compared his love for the programme to being a parent to a child.

Speaking at the press launch, Simon - who recently admitted he was "proud to be a dad" - said: "This is the first time I've seen the show edited now. It was absolutely incredible - congratulations. Great panel, great talent, it could just be so easy after 10 years to get lazy and make the same show again.

"I'm very proud to be part of this show and once again I feel like a very proud daddy."

Simon hinted he might have other things on his mind as he heaped praise on host Dermot O'Leary, the show's judging panel - Nicole Scherzinger, Gary Barlow, Louis Walsh and Sharon Osbourne - and Xtra Factor's Caroline Flack, he briefly forgot the name of her new co-host Matt Richardson.

He added: "The enthusiasm, the changes, the judging panel, Dermot, of course, Caroline and the new arrival ... Matt! I can't remember everyone's name!"

The music mogul was in fine form as he ended his short speech by thanking all his critics for their help in making him "loads of money" from the show.

He explained: "Most importantly, thanks to all of you guys in the room who have slagged us off, written nice things, but it's all been great. It's made us successful and loads of money, so thank you very much indeed."

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