Cowell credits Lewis with return of X Factor

Simon Cowell has credited British singer Leona Lewis for convincing him to return as a judge on TV talent show The X Factor.

The acid-tongued star admits his stint presiding over fame hopefuls on the UK series was in jeopardy due to his busy workload - but was reassured the series was a success by eventual winner Lewis, who emerged victorious from the contest in 2006.