Simon Cowell blasts BBC pathetic for Strictly Come Dancing clash

The media mogul says airing the show at the same time as X Factor is nothing short of 'childish'

Simon Cowell has hit out at the BBC, branding its decision to air Strictly Come Dancing during the same time slot as the X Factor as 'childish.'

SEE ALL THE PICS FROM THE X FACTOR 2010 SO FAR

It's become an familiar Saturday night showdown between the two TV talent shows, but it seems that Simon has had enough of playing the ratings game.

'Why would you want to put them on at the same time?' he said.

'That is nothing more than being actually pathetic, childish and doing a disservice to people who pay the licence fee.'

'We don't pay the licence fee for people to play games with ratings,' he continued.

'We gave [the BBC] the choice last year about different time slots but they seem obsessed with competing.'

Despite the new series of Strictly Come Dancing hitting our screens in just nine days time, the exact time slot this year has yet to be announced.

In another dig at the broadcaster, Simon continued to suggest that they should show their programme earlier on during the day, to satisfy their 'older' audience.

'Then they can have a nap if it finishes at six and watch X Factor later.'

The BBC insisted that last year's Saturday night clash was because it was restricted by other programming - namely the National Lottery, news and Match of the Day - meaning it had little choice in when to air the popular celebrity dancing show.

What do you think of Simon's comments? Are you a Strictly fan, or does X Factor get your vote? Let us know your thoughts in the comments box below!

SEE ALL THE ACTION FROM THE X FACTOR 2010 HERE!