Simon Cowell has told Russell Brand to give up his multi-million pound salary if he's serious about his new political beliefs.

The music mogul has criticized the comic star for accepting large salaries for his Hollywood films, while also campaigning against the political system in the UK. Russell, 48, recently joined a protest with British activist group Anonymous as part of a worldwide protest against austerity cuts and the disadvantages of the current socio-economic system.

But Simon thinks Russell is a hypocrite who doesn't do what he says and has actually greatly benefited from capitalism. "A revolution? He's getting $10 million a movie. I mean come on! Well give your money back then, Russell. I always say that about people. Start off as you mean to go on. Donate all the money back to the revolution and then I'll believe it. I'm living in a $10 million mansion and I want a revolution? Give me a break," said the X Factor boss.

Simon is proud of his career achievements and doesn't mind being criticised for creating The X Factor and other talent shows or his influence on pop music. The 53-year-old star can't understand why the singing contest makes some people angry - with musician Jake Bugg recently branding the series "s**t." The 53-year-old music mogul mused, "Look everyone's had a pop at it, and I criticize people on the show so you've got to expect it back in return. But you know what? They all secretly watch it. They're all 'I hate it' and get really angry, but they are all watching it every night."