Sounds like Simon Cowell is creating some friendly competition between “The X Factor” and “American Idol.”

According to the Hollywood Reporter, Cowell told reporters via satellite that he is “happy” for Mariah Carey's new "Idol" judging gig.  But there was one strong critique. Cowell said Carey would have a “difficult” time saying "no" to contestants because of her “sweet” personality.

Cowell’s comments were made during an "X Factor” panel discussion, so we can’t expect him to gush too much about the competition, but he did take the opportunity to gush about Britney Spears. Although we have heard little from Spears in the past few years -- other than her music -- Cowell said we’ll get to see a “different side of her” once “The X Factor” hits TVs everywhere this fall.