Simon Cowell Mocks Nicole Scherzinger, Paula Abdul At X Factor USA Launch

Simon Cowell poked fun at Nicole Scherzinger and Paula Abdul at the launch of The X Factor USA last night (September 14).

Cowell, Scherzinger and Abdul were joined by fellow judge LA Reid and the show's host Steve Jones as they met fans in Los Angeles.

Speaking to journalists, Cowell was his typically ruthless self – especially when it came to Abdul and Pussycat Doll Scherzinger.

After praising Abdul's return to TV talent show judging, Cowell said: "With Paula, within five minutes of a shoot she's not aware that the cameras are not on any more and she's still prepared to argue. (Our reunion), it's like getting your old dog back from the pound.”

Simon Cowell plays with Paula Abdul's nose at the launch of X Factor USA.

Disucssing Schzeringer, who has replaced Cheryl Cole, the music mogul mocked her accents.

"Nicole was (odd) in a fantastically self-centred way and she wasn't even aware of it,” he said.

“In every city she changes her accent. In New York City, she has a Brooklyn accent; in Dallas she has a twang.”

The US version of The X Factor begins on September 21. The UK version is already broadcasting on ITV1.

X Factor USA - Launch Photos