SIMON Cowell’s friendship with David Walliams “turned sour” BEFORE the star’s axe from Britain’s Got Talent.

It’s been claimed the once close pals secretly fell out while working together on the hit ITV talent show.

David Walliams' friendship with Simon Cowell is said to be impacted by the ex show star's current court case
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David Walliams’ friendship with Simon Cowell is said to be impacted by the ex show star’s current court caseCredit: Splash News

David, left, is suing BGT bosses Fremantle for data protection issues
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David, left, is suing BGT bosses Fremantle for data protection issuesCredit: ITV

Sources have claimed there is now 'some distance' between the hilarious pair
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Sources have claimed there is now ‘some distance’ between the hilarious pair
The Daily Mail reports music mogul Simon, 63, became “embarrassed” by David – who would act gay and in love with the judge, calling him “my Simon”.

David, 52, was let go last year after a transcript of comments he made about contestants during a break in filming was leaked.

He called one OAP a “c***” three times and said of another: “She thinks you want to f*** her, but you don’t.”

The derogatory remarks were picked up on his microphone during auditions at the London Palladium in January 2020.

David apologised after the comments were made public – and he was replaced by Bruno Tonioli.

Last week The Sun revealed Little Britain comedian David, 52, is now suing BGT show bosses Fremantle for a data protection breach over the x-rated rants.

Now, it’s reported things have been tense between the pair for a while.

A source said: “[Initially] they would see each other socially and seemed tight, but it went sour fairly rapidly and they weren’t on good terms by the end.”

Simon was in Los Angeles preparing for the final of America’s Got Talent when news of the lawsuit hit.

It’s understood he had no idea the legal action coming.

Simon skipped David’s 52nd birthday celebrations last month, despite Amanda Holden and Alesha Dixon turning out.