Simon Cowell has spoken for the first time about the unauthorised biography that continues to X Factor boss says he's "embarrassed" that his personal affairs have been made public.

Speaking to TMZ, Simon said: "What I would say about the book, and I have to say this, is that I've been very embarrassed actually this week.

"It's not my habit to kiss and tell. I've never done it. I've always tried to keep my private life private, and it is unfortunate.

"So I was feeling very embarrassed and not gentlemanly at all this week because it's just not my style."

Though he insisted "the guy's got the right to write the book he wants", Simon confessed: "It has been uncomfortable, to be honest with you".

Cowell's publicist, Max Clifford, said earlier this week that [uuid=4cd62ed5-2464-4936-b90b-0382386b3227]talking to Bower "was a mistake".[/uuid]