Simon Cowell: Leona Lewis Is A Great Role Model

Leona Lewis is a "great role model" for young people, Simon Cowell says. The music mogul, who had discovered the 23-year-old singer while she was just a contestant on "The X-Factor," says his protégé hasn't let fame go to her head.

Lewis shot to stardom after her win in the U.K. TV talent contest. Her debut single "Bleeding Love" has been number one in more than 20 countries and reports say that she is heading towards the $100million-mark contract.

Cowell, who also judges another talent show - American Idol - in the U.S., says the talented singer is a great role model for the youth and that she has an incredible future ahead.

He says, "Leona has got her feet firmly on the ground and isn't getting carried away by all of this. She takes nothing for granted."

"She has an incredible future ahead - but I only want her to do it if she's happy and enjoying herself."

He continues, "Leona is a great role model for young people on both sides of the Atlantic. She is a lovely person and there is no chance of her going off the rails."