Cowell ended Friel's music hopes, claims pal

British actress Anna Friel's dreams of a music career were shattered, after she met American Idol judge Simon Cowell.

Cowell was eager to sign up the former Brookeside star before she found success as an actress but the pair fell out after he refused to market her as a serious musician.

A friend says: "She met with Simon before she became famous. He was keen to sign her up as she has a great voice, but wanted to push her in a pop direction she didn't fancy."