Cowell’s shows are dangerous and cruel, says Annie Lennox

London (ANI): Oscar-winning singer Annie Lennox has blasted Simon Cowell's TV talent shows - labeling the contests 'dangerous" and 'cruel". The Eurhythmics star claims she would never like to be a part of the judging panel of shows such as 'American Idol" or Britain's 'The X Factor" because of the devastating effect rejection can have on upcoming singers.

"I think those types of shows are dangerous and cruel - they'll have a long-lasting effect on how people look at music," the Daily Star quoted her as telling Britain's Daily Mail. "I understand their appeal, but there's no chance I'd ever be a judge. You have a panel of people basically giving you the thumbs up or down, and there's so much more to music than that," she added.