Simon Cowell has “smashed” his America’s Got Talent golden statue – after the monstrous image left him utterly livid.
The bust, which had a big misshapen head and warped teeth, was presented to the music mogul in a prank by actress and fellow AGT judge Sofia Vegara.
And, even though Simon asked for it to be destroyed, the statue was put on display in the foyer of the Luxor Resort in Las Vegas - venue for his AGT Live theatrical show.
But now a framed photo of the star has appeared on its plinth, alongside a line-up of much more flattering busts of Sofia and the rest of the judging panel – model Heidi Klum, comedian Howie Mandel and actor Terry Crews.
Baffled fans have asked AGT Live staff why Simon’s sculpture is missing.
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Most duck the questions, but one let slip: “Simon broke the statue. It was smashed and cannot stand anymore, so it was removed. It was an accident, we were told, but everybody knew how much he disliked that thing.
“Film cameras caught what happened. We are told that it will be all explained on the upcoming series of AGT soon.
“Asked if the bust is being repaired or replaced , the staff member said: “I think Simon is working on it. He doesn’t want the one he had there back at all.”
An LA TV producer said: “Simon laughed along when they filmed the prank, but he loathed that statue.
“But it’s clear he felt enough was enough and he had to get rid of it.”
When asked about the bust, Simon said: “It’s total crap. If I look like that, I will retire. Seriously. It’s hideous.”
But his close pal Howie thinks it’s funny.
He joked: “It should never be changed. You don’t screw with perfection. And that was perfectly hilarious.” Brilliant.
