We knew the sizzling chemistry between Simon Cowell and Paula Abdul on American Idol and The X Factor had to come from somewhere - according to Simon it's based on sexual tension as he reveals he once nearly slept with his fellow judge.

Luckily we will be spared all the gruesome details as Simon changed his mind before jumping between the sheets.

In an interview with American broadcaster Barbara Walters during her 10 Most Fascinating People special on ABC on Wednesday, Simon said: "I mean, the truth was, on the first two seasons, we couldn't travel on the same plane together. We really disliked each other that much."

That soon changed though as Simon said the main reason for not climbing into bed with Paula was that he didn't want to ruin their friendship.

Simon said the chances of Paula saying yes to Simon's advances were "a million percent" and that the reason they initially didn't get along was because of "sexual tension on her part".

On going through with it, Simon said: "I considered it, but then I thought, 'I don't think the after would be as good as the before.' I'd let her stay for a few hours, but then it would have to be a goodnight."

How romantic!

(WENN)