The man behind The X Factor, Britain's Got Talent, Pop Idol and American Idol and numerous pop hits will be profiled with the help of contributions from Cowell's family and friends.

One-time local lad, Simon once worked as a runner at Elstree Studios on productions including the film The Shining and the TV series Return of the Saint.

Cowell's Elstree years were commerated with a plaque ceremony in June 2006. The entrepreneur was in attendance as was close friend and fellow music mogul Pete Waterman.

Simon Cowell: Where Did it All Go Right?, Five, Wednesday 20th May 2009, 10pm.