Simon Cowell has admitted that he is supporting his fellow X Factor judge Cheryl Cole through her marriage breakdown.

Speaking at Sir Elton John’s post-Oscars party in Los Angeles on Sunday night, Cowell revealed that he is ‘there’ for Cheryl and credits her with being a ‘strong girl.’

Cowell told the Daily Mail: “She’s a friend and you’re always going to be there for friends.

“She’s going through a hard time, but you know, she’s a strong girl. I’ve been in touch and I’m there for her.”

On whether Cheryl will divorce Ashley Simon said: “You’ve got to do what feels right for you.”