Simon Cowell's mother passes away

TV mogul Simon Cowell's mother Julie has passed away at the age of 89, the family have confirmed.

Julie died on Sunday and her family has paid tributes to a "truly special and kind lady", reports femalefirst.co.uk.

"Today our beloved mum Julie passed away. Anyone who had met her would know what a truly special and kind lady she was. We are heartbroken and will miss her terribly, but she is now at peace," a family spokesperson said in a statement.

Simon is said to be "devastated (and) heartbroken" by the news.

"Simon is absolutely devastated. His mum was the most beloved person in his life and they were incredibly close. But at least she got to see him settle down and start a family which was one of the great wishes of her life. Julie had been unwell for some time and she was in a home," The Sun newspaper quoted one of Cowell's friend as saying.

ITV bosses have reportedly cancelled filming for the "X Factor" auditions, which was due to take place in Manchester.