They're both music moguls fronting TV talent shows, so a little good-natured rivalry between Simon Cowell and Andrew Lloyd Webber is only to be expected. And after signing up Simon's X Factor rejects Francine and Nicola Gleadall for his Eurovision Song Contest show, Sir Andrew couldn't resist a good-natured dig at his music industry pal.
"I think the public will fall in love with (the girls)," says the British composer. "If Simon Cowell didn't think so, that's his problem. He doesn't work with the artists the way I do."
With the X Factor judge holidaying in the Caribbean and unable to respond to the new development Sir Andrew joked: "I can't speak for Simon. He's probably still sunning himself in Barbados and extending his property" - a reference to the reality TV star's latest investment on the sun-drenched isle.
Andrew has included the twins among the final six acts to appear on his BBC1 show Your Country Needs You. They will perform live on Saturday night at 6.40pm with the winner going on to represent Britain in the Eurovision Song contest.
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Photo: PA
