Amanda Holden says Simon Cowell saved her reputation and image.

Amanda Holden

Amanda Holden

The 'Britain's Got Talent' judge admitted before joining the panel in 2007 she was known mainly for her fling with 'Men Behaving Badly' actor Neil Morrissey while she was married to Les Dennis - but she says her role on the show gave her a second chance.

She told the Metro newspaper: "When I first joined I was in the mindset of the British public for being divorced and having an affair.

"It was all very negative and Simon gave me the chance to show people who I really am. There's no hiding on that show.

"It's given me a huge profile and everyone has seen I am one of them. It's completely shifted my career ... into hosting, DJ-ing, endorsements, brands."

Amanda, 48, is grateful for Simon, 59, standing by her side after she shouted "f**k" before the 9pm watershed when she got spooked by The Haunting's performance during the talent show's live semi-finals on Monday (27.05.19).

She added: "I did say to Simon behind the scenes, 'F**k, you are not going to sack me, are you?'

"He was like, 'Don't be stupid!' I was more mindful of the fact that kids were watching."

Amanda was led to a room underneath the stage and confronted by the "ghosts" of Agatha and Florence, and she swore when she was grabbed during the act.

Returning to the stage, she said: I just really want to apologise if I said anything. I said a really terrible word. I know there are kids watching, I know my kids are watching, so massive apologies. I can honestly say I feel terrified."