Simon Cowell confesses to having infrequent conversations with Ryan Seacrest now.

Simon Cowell and Ryan Seacrest first rose to fame together with the launch of American Idol in 2002, a show that quickly became a cultural milestone. Now, more than two decades later, the two industry icons admit they "rarely talk."

In a recent conversation with the New York Times, Cowell was asked about Seacrests ongoing presence in the entertainment world. Cowell commented, "I cant really answer that one," before adding, "He does work hard."

Seacrest has maintained a busy career, hosting American Idol since its debut, along with Wheel of Fortune, Dick Clarks New Years Rockin Eve, and his radio program, On Air with Ryan Seacrest.

"He was extremely ambitious," Cowell noted when asked about Seacrests work ethic. "I didnt track his career closely, so Im not sure of all hes accomplished."

Cowell was a judge on American Idol from the start, gaining fame as TVs sharp-tongued critic. He left the show in 2010 to create the American version of The X Factor, following his successful U.K. series.

Afterward, Cowell and Seacrest grew apart. "We rarely talk now," Cowell admitted, describing Seacrest as "very determined about his career driven by an immense desire for fame."

Although The X Factor in the U.S. ran only three seasons, Cowell later found success with Britains Got Talent and Americas Got Talent as a judge. While Cowell and Seacrest often exchanged playful remarks on camera, both have denied any personal feud.

In a 2017 Ellen DeGeneres Show interview, Seacrest expressed he missed working with Cowell. "Working with Simon is always entertaining," he said, addressing rumors that he might host AGT. "I never expected our paths to align for a reunion, but it would be fun I miss Simon. Hes great to work with."

Author: Grace Ellison