Simon Cowell: Why I Broke Up With My Girlfriend

Simon Cowell opens up to FOX News about the break-up from his girlfriend of six years, Terri Seymour. Here’s what the 49-year-old American Idol judge had to say:

On Terri being in a different stage of life than him: “She wants a different path in life, and I totally respect her for it. We will be the best of mates, but I think in relationships, you have to be totally honest. I have always been and I know Terri knows that.”

On honesty not always equaling understanding: “I find women confusing really. When you hook up and date, you’re both honest about what you want. I have never ever said that I want children or marriage. I know some people find it hard to fathom, but it’s me, it’s who I am.”

On work being of utmost importance: “Bottom line is I am married to my job. When people moan about been a celebrity, I think ‘Oh please, sort yourself out – it’s the greatest job in the world.’ I wake up daily thanking my lucky stars, but to throw marriage into that mix is not right. I have seen too many celebrity marriages that on paper make a great mix, fall apart through ego and just plain celebrity madness.”

On there not being “another woman” to blame for the split: “There is no one new in my life. I can honestly say some of my best friends are girls, but we’re not dating, and that is that. Forget any lurid tabloid headlines. Myself and Terri will remain firm friends. We’re grown ups.”