Simon Cowell miffed over BRIT awards Leona snub

Apr 10, 2008, 11:15 GMT

04/06/2008 - Simon Cowell - Idol Gives Back 2008 - Arrivals - Kodak Theatre - Hollywood, CA, USA © Chris Hatcher / PR Photos

Simon Cowell hasn't bought a house for Leona Lewis, because he would be "broke" if he celebrated all his artists' successes.

The music mogul slammed claims he rewarded Leona's amazing US success by splashing out on a £2.5 million Hollywood property.

He said: "No! I didn't buy her a house. If I did that I would be broke every time I had a hit."

Leona recently became the first British solo female to top the US Billboard Hot 100 chart in 21 years with her hit 'Bleeding Love'.

Simon is also fuming after Leona - who found fame on hit UK talent show 'The X Factor' - was snubbed at this year's BRIT Awards.

He added to Britain's The Sun newspaper: "I don't like the BRITs. You should recognise and celebrate success. This is the problem, people say, 'Leona can't be taken seriously because she entered 'X Factor'.' But shows like 'The X Factor' are there because doors are closed. You have to start changing your attitude - give her one award for God's sake!

"When a British music awards show deliberately snubs someone like Leona then they are out of touch."

Leona went home empty-handed from the February ceremony after receiving nominations for Best British Single, British Breakthrough Act, Best British Album and Best British Female Solo Artist.

(C) BANG Media International