Simon Cowell has spoken out today in criticism of X Factor judge Sharon Osbourne and her recent personal comments about fellow judge, Dannii Minogue.

“You see a grown-up Sharon behaving like this in public. I think it’s wrong,” Cowell told the Sunday Mirror. “Certain things should be done behind closed doors - the limelight shouldn’t be taken from the contestants. I wish Sharon would ask my advice before she does things instead of trying to deal with it herself.”

“Sharon would be the first to admit that we’ve had a turbulent relationship over the last three or four years, but I’ve got to know her a lot better this year,” he added.

Simon also insisted that Dannii has more enough experience and showbiz credentials to qualify her for the role of XF judge.

“I was intrigued as to whether or not she could do the job,” he admitted. “She’s done a ton of songs, movies, Grease and Home and Away. That’s exactly the sort of experience you need to be a judge. And she’s worked harder with the artists than anyone else. She did 20-hour days.”

When asked if all of the judges will be back next year, Cowell replied: “A hundred per cent - if they can get on.”