X Factor boss Simon Cowell had a “hectic day” yesterday, meaning he missed the start of auditions in Dallas after his fellow judges were all too pleased to commence proceedings without him.

It was the second day of filming in the city, and with many hours ahead, Paula Abdul, L.A. Reid and Nicole Scherzinger set to work despite Cowell’s absence.

According to Digital Spy, L.A. Reid told to audience: “We are going to start without him. We don’t want you to have to wait and he’s always late. This time we’re going to get rolling, Simon or no Simon!”

“I’ve waited 12 years to start without Simon!” Paula added. “This is the first time in history this has ever happened. He has a tendency to be late – and not even just fashionably late! Don’t worry about him – he’ll be just fine. This is about the talent, and you guys are more important.”

An audience member claimed Simon eventually arrived two acts into the show, whilst a 15-year-old boy was performing. The singer was unsure of the cause of the sudden cheering, but Paula announced: “Elvis has entered the building.”

Despite the slight interruption, the boy continued and received a postive response from the judges and audience, with Simon taking credit for the good performance.

The music mogul put his lateness down to a helicopter falling on his car. “I had quite a hectic day. I’m very sorry,” he said.

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