‘Idol’ creator Simon Fuller sues for stake in rival competition show ‘X-Factor’

LOS ANGELES, Calif. – The creator of “American Idol” has sued the show’s broadcaster and producer seeking a stake in a rival musical competition show called “The X-Factor.”

Simon Fuller’s lawsuit filed Wednesday in Santa Monica, Calif., seeks an executive producer credit and the appropriate fees on “X-Factor,” which was created by former “Idol” judge Simon Cowell.

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Fuller’s lawsuit is against Fox Broadcasting Co., which will air both shows, and “Idol” production company Fremantlemedia North America.

In a joint statement, Fox and Fremantle called Fuller’s case meritless and claim he has done nothing to justify either payment or executive producer credit.

Fuller disagrees, stating the companies guaranteed him a stake in “X-Factor” in a 2005 settlement that kept “X-Factor” from airing in the United States until 2011. Both shows originated in England.