Simon Cowell is to get a special Emmy prize for his TV work.

The media mogul, who is behind shows including 'The X Factor' and 'American Idol', will be presented with the International Emmy Founders Award in the US - one of the highest TV accolades awarded to a TV star - for having "reshaped 21st century television and music around the world".

President of the International Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, Bruce Paisner, said of the star: "He is an entrepreneur and a performer in equal measure.

"Simon Cowell has built an international empire and has changed the face of TV around the world."

Simon, 50, is said to be thrilled with the accolade recognising his TV shows - which are estimated to be worth £1 billion worldwide.

He said: "I've been very lucky to be able to make shows I love."

Previous winners of the same prize include Oprah Winfrey, Steven Spielberg, Al Gore and Sir David Frost

Simon will receive the gong at the 38th International Emmy Awards on November 22.