Simon Cowell: X-Factor better since I left

Simon Cowell has admitted the UK X-Factor is better since he left.

The opening night of the talent show on Saturday was watched by 12.6 million viewers - and Cowell, who quit his place on the judge’s panel to launch the US version, said he couldn’t be happier.

"I'm thrilled with the numbers. The new judging team are doing a brilliant job and the show feels even better this year,” he told The Sun through his publicist Max Clifford.

Cowell was replaced by Take That star Gary Barlow, while Tulisa and Kelly Rowland were drafted in to replace Cheryl Cole and Dannii Minogue respectively. But Cowell conceded that even though he is pleased with his choices, he would still like to be missed.

"With me not there, it has taken the age down considerably. We have four individuals being themselves. It is the public who will decide, but I am very pleased with the start. I want it to be ever more successful - but there is a side of me that wants to be missed."

An insider added: "Of course he has a high opinion of himself as a judge, but he truly believes the show is better this year."

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