Cowell: I will be leaving BGT

Britain's Got Talent (BGT) judge Simon Cowell has said he will not be performing such an active role in the show as of next year.

The 50-year-old told Reveal magazine he will not be taking part in the auditions process in 2011, adding that his days on the programme are numbered.

"I won't be doing the BGT auditions next year. I will join the show at the semi-final stage," he remarked. "I will eventually leave but nothing is decided yet."

The music mogul hinted that the launch of the US X Factor is one reason behind the move, noting it will be a "huge challenge".

Despite his famed ego, Cowell was quick to say that BGT will remain a success without him.

He recently admitted he is too busy to organise his own wedding due to his ongoing television commitments, following his announcement that he is now engaged to girlfriend Mezhgan Hussainy.

C'ya Charlotte Lassiter

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