Simon Cowell Talks "The X Factor" with Britney and Demi; Says Mariah Might Be Too Nice on "American Idol"

Frank Micelotta/FOXAt the Television Critics Association press tour in Beverly Hills Monday, former American Idol judge Simon Cowell had a few words to say about the show's newest judge, Mariah Carey. "I'm happy for her, actually, I like Mariah," Cowell said, before adding, "I think she's going to find it difficult to say no. You know, she's sweet." Cowell did allow, however, "I think she'll be great."

On the other hand, Cowell -- who was touting his retooled new show The X Factor and new judges Demi Lovato and Britney Spears -- said Britney's anything but sweet. "Britney's quite mean, as you'll discover," Cowell said to laughs. Lovato took issue, saying, "I'd say she's tough...She's a sweetheart." Cowell -- who brought along footage of Britney putting poor acts in their place -- responded, "Sweet: like a lemon."

For her part, Britney says the decision to go to X Factor was a chance to do something "really different from anything I'd ever done," as well as a way to, "give back and help people achieve their dreams."

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