Simon Cowell Angers Seacrest

Simon Cowell and Ryan Seacrest have rowed about a contestant on 'American Idol'.

The reality show judge was confronted by his long-time friend Ryan live on air after the outspoken 50-year-old music mogul branded a performance by popular contestant Michael Lynche as "desperate" and "corny".

When Ryan asked Simon to elaborate on his scathing comments, he answered: "Do you want me to talk to you or to Michael?"

However, the 35-year-old star strode over to Simon and squared up to him, before demanding the judge was more "constructive" with his comments.

According to the Daily Mirror newspaper, Ryan said: "I'm actually trying to help him out a bit because I want him to stay in this competition. Are you all right with that? Try and give him some constructive criticism."

The other judges on the show - Randy Jackson, Ellen DeGeneres and Kara DioGuardi - all laughed nervously at the stormy situation but looked relieved when it was over.

As Ryan backed away, Simon added: "We can sort this out in my trailer afterwards if that's what you want to do."