It was reported last week that in Tom Bower’s biography of Simon Cowell, which is entitled, Sweet Revenge: The Intimate Life of Simon Cowell, the author claimed that Cowell had had a “breakdown” which necessitated him cutting himself off from almost everyone.

However, during an interview on Daybreak, Simon has denied the claims, and said that his self-imposed six week exile from the limelight was something he intends to do every year, simply as a break from his hectic schedule.

In Bower’s book, the author claims that Simon told long term friend and X Factor judge Louis Walsh, “I have to get back to where I was years ago. I had to stop reading texts at three in the morning and making calls later and later. I wanted peace.”

But while speaking to Daybreak reporter Ross King at the launch of The X Factor USA, Simon said, “I did turn my phone off for six weeks. I had a lot going on.”

He added, “I would do it again next year. Just switch off for six weeks and concentrate on all the things that are important.

“You don’t get all these crazy text messages and stuff.”

Maybe just block Jasmine Lennard instead Simon?

But talking of crazy goings on, it’s been reported today that Xtra Factor host Caroline Flack had an encounter with a ghoulie while filming for the show at Gary Barlow’s Judge’s House, Boughton House in Northants.

Speaking to TV Biz, Caroline said that she felt something brush against her bottom right before she saw an “apparition” in an antique mirror.

She said, “I don’t believe in ghosts. I’m a real sceptic. But I felt something brush past me and there was nobody else in the room.

“It was weird. Later on, I thought I saw something move in the mirror. It looked like someone’s arm.

“There is definitely something creepy going on in that house.”

Gary added, “As soon as it got dark, it did become quite creepy.

“There were parts of the house that went really cold even though it had been hot outside — and there were some pretty weird creaks and groans going on.

“There was a weird atmosphere — the girls felt it more than the boys.

“Maybe they are more in tune with the paranormal.”

Or more easily spooked…