SHARON OSBOURNE - SHARON OSBOURNE GETS LIPPY

TV matriarch SHARON OSBOURNE is to replace SIMON COWELL as a judge on AMERICAN IDOL and has told she can be as rude as she likes to bad contestants.

Cowell has withdrawn his services for the third run of the talent show, and OZZY's outspoken wife has stepped into the breach - with bosses telling her to be as controversial as possible.

An American Idol insider says, "Sharon has had a long career in the music industry. She can spot talent but when she can't see it she'll not be afraid to have a go."

KELLY OSBOURNE's mum is also a possible judge for the next series of the UK version of POP IDOL.