Cowell to Receive International Emmy

Simon Cowell will receive the 2010 International Emmy Founders Award for his work in television.

The 50-year-old British recording executive and TV personality is a judge on the popular U.S. singing competition show "American Idol." He's also known for the "Got Talent" and "X Factor" franchises.

Photos: Simon Cowell
Photos: "American Idol" Season Eight

International Academy President Bruce Paisner says Cowell "has built an international empire and in so doing has changed the face of television around the world."

Cowell will receive the award at a New York gala on Nov. 22. He said in a statement Thursday that he's "delighted," and has been "very lucky to be able to make shows that I love."

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