Minogue hurt by rumours of Cowell affair

Australian singer Dannii Minogue says she struggles to deal with false media reports alleging she is having an affair with music mogul Simon Cowell.

The star was rumoured to be romancing Cowell, her fellow judge on British reality show 'The X Factor', after they were snapped out and about in London apparently holding hands last year.

However, single Minogue insists the photo was simply taken at a bad angle.

"We were not holding hands," she said. "But no one believes me. It was the angle of the picture."

She admits the affair speculation took its toll on her - especially because she knew Cowell and his girlfriend Terri Seymour were happy together.

"The whole time was awkward for me, it wasn't pleasant," she said. "The press were writing about us - what could I do if someone says I shouldn't be somewhere? Am I not going to ever leave my house?"