Dance judge jealous of Cowell success

Nigel Lythgoe is jealous of Simon Cowell's success.

The 'So You Think You Can Dance' judge - who worked alongside the media mogul on the reality show 'American Idol' - said he is envious of the power Simon has managed to obtain worldwide, but despite being rivals they "remain good friends".

He said: "We have dinner if we're in the same town at the same time. Do I admire Simon? How could I not? I'm jealous of him, financially speaking, but also of the power he wields as king of entertainment on both sides of the Atlantic.

"He's a huge talent who'll turn out to be the next Jonathan Ross."

The 60-year-old British star - who is credited as creating the appetite for reality TV shows with 'Popstars' in 2000 when his nasty comments earned him the nickname 'nasty' Nigel - is currently a judge on the BBC show, 'So You Think You Can Dance' where he works alongside Arlene Phillips.

Speaking of his chemistry with the choreographer, Nigel said he couldn't understand the thinking behind her being dropped from the BBC's 'Strictly Come Dancing.'

He said: "I don't know anyone who's better qualified. She may be tough, but, like me, she learnt in a tough school. I read one critique that likened her to Adolf Hitler. As far as I'm concerned the judiciary on any subject should be wise, old people. Only the Chinese, it seems, recognise this."