In Simon We Trust

A recent poll of British children asked the under-10 set to name the most famous person in the world. The winner: Simon Cowell.

Running a distant second was God, while the Queen came in at third place.

Proving that British children have all the depth of an America's Next Top Model contestant, they also voted "the best thing in the world" was "good looks," while the worst thing in the world was "being fat."

Speaking of Simon, the Hollywood Reporter is reporting that the American Idol judge is currently in the midst of negotiating a new contract that would see him continue his judging duties for an additional two years. This time around, however, an American version of his Brit hit "The X Factor" is said to be part of the deal. He would reportedly earn US$50 mil a year from Idol and another $50 mil from X Factor, although it remains to be seen whether he'll be a judge on the latter show, as he is on the British version.

One intriguing item within the story, though: Paula Abdul is rumoured to be on the short list of potential judges if "X Factor" does get picked up. Should be interesting to see how this plays out.