Simon Cowell forced to pull out of best man duty for Syco pal - leaving Doctor Who star Bradley Walsh to step in

Simon Cowell pulled out of Best Man duty at a friend’s wedding over the weekend, leaving Bradley Walsh to step in.

The X Factor judge was forced to skip out on the nuptials of Nigel Hall, Global Head of TV for Syco, in London.

Filming commitments in the US meant that Cowell’s partner Lauren Silverman attended the bash at Claridges alone while Doctor Who star Walsh took his place in the ceremony.

A source told The Sun: “Bradley referenced Simon in his speech and said that he only RSVPed that he wouldn’t be coming three days before.

“Bradley was happy to step in and did a fine job. He made references to Simon in his speech which seemed to cause Lauren to tear up a bit.

“Nigel was upset that Simon couldn’t make it. They’ve been friends for a long time so he really wanted him there.

“Simon told him that his schedule for filming changed at the very last minute and there was nothing he could do, so Lauren flew in alone.”

Standard Online has contacted representatives for Cowell for comment.

Britain’s Got Talent judge Amanda Holden and singer Cheryl also attended the event on Saturday.

Meanwhile, it was revealed on Sunday night’s The X Factor that Cowell will be mentoring the girls’ category during this year’s competition .

The 60 successful acts will head straight to the sometimes brutal Six Chair Challenge this year after Boot Camp was axed.