IF Richard Branson and Elton John have been knighted, we knew Simon Cowell wasn’t going to be far behind.

According to reports, the music mogul will reportedly be knighted by Queen Elizabeth II as part of her birthday honours list next month. Simon was highly recommended by former prime minister Gordon Brown, in particular for his efforts in producing the remake of “Everybody Hurts” in aid of the Haiti earthquake relief efforts.

“Gordon Brown was very keen for Simon to get proper recognition for his work. He was particularly impressed by the way Simon responded to his suggestion to release the record for Haiti by dropping everything to ensure it was a success,” said a source. “And there’s no doubt Simon has brought as great deal of happiness to millions of people with his music and TV shows.”

Those close to Simon say he “deserves” the honour because of all the work he has done to help others.

“It would be an absolutely huge achievement and a wonderful tribute to all he’s achieved professionally. Simon deserves the honor because he does so much work behind the scenes for charity and publicly supports good causes,” said another insider to the Daily Mirror newspaper.

“He has also generated millions in the music and entertainment industries, created thousands of jobs and helped make Sony a multinational conglomerate.”

As big-headed as he appears to be, many say the knighthood will come as a huge shock to Simon, who has previously said his chances of knighthood are “below zero”.

The source added: “Simon has always joked he’d be last in line for a knighthood. But, deep down, it’s his dream.”

Other entertainers who have received the honour include Sir Michael Caine, Sir Mick Jagger and Sir Paul McCartney.

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