(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Simon Cowells nickname for David Hasselhoff is Precious, it has been revealed.

The TV producers older brother Tony Cowell has spoken candidly about Simons friendship with the American actor. Simon and David who is also known as The Hoff have known each other for years, but have become closer since working on the television shows Americas Got Talent and Britains Got Talent. The pair are such good pals that the music mogul even has a cheeky nickname for David.

The Hoff is a TV legend! Hes been friends with Simon for 20 years. In fact, Simons nickname for him is Precious and hes the only man on the planet who could get away with calling him that, Tony told British magazine Star. Simon told me, David makes such great television and he is so funny he doesnt know it. I ran into The Hoff backstage at Britains Got Talent recently and he is literally larger than life all 6ft 5ins of him.

Tony and Simon grew up in London and often team up on projects together.

In 2003, Tony helped his famous brother to write his autobiography I Dont Mean To Be Rude, But and often refers to them as Team Cowell.

Tony describes the 51-year-old TV star as a rebellious teenager and speaks fondly of his childhood memories of Simon.

People often ask me what it was like growing up with Simon. Well, all I can say is do you remember Damian in the film The Omen?, he joked. That said, I remain in awe of his talent and hard work. (C) Cover Media