What every Pop Idol reject wants to see

It is the moment every one of his Pop Idol victims has been waiting for. TV's Mr Nasty Simon Cowell finally got his come-uppance on the hit talent show when one disgruntled hopeful drenched him in water.

The soaking happened in the US on the new series of American Idol, in which Cowell has made himself famous for his withering put-downs and cruel verdicts.

But one young hopeful was determined to get the better of him - and Cowell had not even uttered a word. The unnamed contestant had just finished belting out an offkey tune when Cowell, apparently lost for words, stood up and put his head in his hands.

The contestant walked towards the desk, where Cowell was sitting with fellow judges Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul, and appeared to be reaching to shake his hand. But Cowell realised he was trying to grab a cup of water and desperately tried to grab it back. After grappling for a few seconds, the young man pulled the cup away and threw the water all over him.

The scene will be shown in the third series of American Idol which begins next week.

On ITV's Pop Idol there have been complaints and even vague threats to Cowell but no one has managed to embarrass him.

American Idol has more than 30 million viewers. Cowell, 43, has become the main attraction and recently signed a multi-million deal for another three years of the show.

Ten MPs recently signed a Commons motion branding Cowell "irresponsible" for judging some contestants on weight and looks as well as their singing.

But Cowell defended himself, saying: "I think you have to judge everything based on your personal taste. And if that means being critical, so be it. I hate political correctness. I absolutely loathe it."