Ananova:

Simon Cowell has been drenched with water by a disgruntled contestant on American Idol.

The soaking happened in the new series of the show - and Cowell had not even uttered a word.

The unnamed contestant had just finished belting out a tune when Cowell, apparently lost for words, stood up and put his head in his hands, reports the London Evening Standard.

The contestant walked towards the desk, where Cowell was sitting with fellow judges Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul, and appeared to be reaching to shake his hand.

But Cowell realised he was trying to grab a cup of water and desperately tried to grab it back.

After grappling for a few seconds, the young man pulled the cup away and threw the water all over him.

The scene will be shown in the third series of American Idol which begins next week.

Cowell, 43, has become the main attraction on American Idol and recently signed a multi-million deal for another three years of the show.

Ten MPs recently signed a Commons motion branding him 'irresponsible' for judging some contestants on weight and looks as well as their singing.