Simon Cowell says Mel B is the closest anyone will get to a female version of him.
The 55-year-old star insists his fellow ‘X Factor’ judge is similar to him in that she is "confident" and works hard and he believes people should realise the 39-year-old star is much more than a former Spice Girl.
He said: "The interesting thing about Mel is there’s so much depth, she’s not just some Spice Girl.
"The more I talk with her, the more I realise just how smart she is.
"She’s a proper grafter and not bitchy or insecure. She’s probably the closest you’re ever going to get to a female version of me.
"This confidence she has in her decisions is just great. I have a lot of admiration for her."
Despite being pleased when Mel joined ‘The X Factor’ panel, Simon has admitted he was concerned the brunette – nicknamed Scary Spice during her time with the girl band – would clash with fellow panellist Cheryl Fernandez-Versini.
He added to HELLO! magazine: "I honestly did wonder whether Mel and Cheryl were going to work.
"But right from the beginning they clicked."
Simon Cowell: Mel B is female version of me
