Cowell has reportedly chartered a crewed luxury yacht, complete with private chef. Simon along with his 84-year-old mother and two former girlfriends are cruising off to paradise.

Cowell asked Sinitta and Jackie St Clair to accompany him on the tropical retreat, with the former girlfriend admitting that she would be going with him to Antigua. "One great thing is that Simon has his own chef, because he certainly can't cook," she said. According to a source close to Cowell, he has apparently been left majorly exhausted by the show and is cruising to the Caribbean to get some rest and relaxation in beautiful weather and good company.

The source also revealed that the music entertainment tycoon has asked ITV for £2 million per episode to run X Factor next season. This seasons show was won by Geordie lad Joe McElderry, who was mentored by northerner Cheryl Cole.