X Factor mastermind Simon Cowell has admitted that he doesn't care if people speculate about his sexual orientation because the music industry is very accepting.

Speaking to Radio Times about the persistent gay rumours that tend to follow him around, Cowell explained that it simply isn't an issue for him and he wouldn't be offended if the public assumed he was a gay man:

"If I was living 200 years ago in a coal mine, maybe [it would bother me], but I work in possibly the gayest industry in the world, music and TV. It would make no difference to my life or my career. A lot of my friends are gay, but I'm not and don't even think that way any more."

Cowell added: "I couldn't care less [if people think I'm gay] because it's nothing to be ashamed of. It feels like such an antiquated question now."

In the same interview, the music mogul revealed that he loves being around beautiful women and was excited when Cheryl Cole joined 'The X Factor' because he was very attracted to her.

Watch Cowell being interviewed by Little Ant & Dec on 'Saturday Night Takeaway' here: