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Cowell backs global ‘Got Talent’

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Simon Cowell backs global ‘Got Talent’
Britain's Got Talent boss Simon Cowell said he was "excited" by the idea of the show's winners Spelbound and Diversity representing England in a global contest.

Asked about the idea of a worldwide competition, Cowell said a previous international version of Pop Idol had been a "disaster" as all the judges had "wanted to be me".

He said the show would have to work without judges.

But he said of having one big spectacle, the idea that "Spelbound or Diversity would represent England... really excites me".

Cowell said gymnastic troupe Spelbound's win on Britain's Got Talent was "100%" the right decision.

He said: "You can make cases for other people on emotional levels ... they were undoubtedly the most talented act we had the whole series and they stepped it up for the final...

"I'm really happy for them."

Cowell said he could team up with Piers Morgan and Amanda Holden to take part in UK commentary and make remarks about contestants.

He said: "I like the idea of England taking on other countries," adding: "And after the Eurovision disaster we have got to do something about that."

Cowell said: "There is an incredible amount of talent around the world at the moment and that's why we make the shows."

He was speaking after receiving an honorary prize for reinventing Saturday night entertainment at the TV Baftas.

The X Factor supremo was handed the Special Award at the Philips British Academy Television Awards for his outstanding contribution to the entertainment industry.

The award, presented to TV luminaries such as Jane Tranter and Andy Harries in the past, recognises his role in developing new talent.

John Willis, chairman of the Bafta TV committee, said previously: "Over the past few years he has not only helped change the entertainment landscape but has reinvented Saturday night family entertainment.

"His shows enable exciting new talent to shine and are the most talked-about programmes on British television.

"He is quite simply one of the most brilliant entertainment producers of our time."

Cowell became a TV mogul after rising to prominence as a judge on Pop Idol, later creating The X Factor and Britain's Got Talent, which finished this weekend, as well as becoming a big name in the US with American Idol.

He has helped to make Susan Boyle a worldwide success and the ... Got Talent format is now screened in more than 40 countries.

Cowell said backstage of his award: "When I found out I was going to get it for myself it was fantastic. I'm genuinely grateful."

© Press Association

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