Simon is the Richest Man on TV

Music mogul Simon Cowell is the richest man on U.S. TV - he has earned a massive $75 million in the last year.

The American Idol judge, who helped created the hugely popular singing contest, also fronts U.K. shows The X Factor and Britain's Got Talent, in addition to his role at record company Sony Bmg.

U.S. magazine Forbes has now ranked him as the highest paid man on television, earning $75 million  between June 2008 and June 2009.

Property tycoon Donald Trump came second in the list, earning $50 million from The Apprentice series, while American Idol host Ryan Seacrest is third with $38 million from his various TV and radio ventures.

The top five is rounded out by Two and a Half Men star Charlie Sheen with $21 million and The Office's Steve Carell with $20 million.

24 star Kiefer Sutherland, British actor Hugh Laurie, and CSI: Miami's David Caruso also featured in the top ten.