Former American Idol boss, Nigel Lythgoe has said that he thinks Al Murray and Harry Hill could crack America.

The TV producer was speaking at the BAFTA/LA’s British Comedy Festival in Beverly Hills, of which he is chairman.

Asked which British comedians would have the potential to make it in the States, Nigel said: “I think the Pub Landlord will do very well; I’d love to bring him over here.

“Harry Hill is somebody else that I’d like to see over here. I think they’re zany and they’re crazy and I think America recognised that in Benny Hill. And those variety comedians are still accepted here, more in fact than they are in England.

“We went down that alternative route and somehow it all got a bit bitter. We’ve got to remember that comedy’s there to make us laugh. You know, we don’t always have to think,” he added.

Nigel also praised Russell Brand, who won Best Comedy Performer at the awards.

“His appearance in Forgetting Sarah Marshall was very well accepted here and I think he’s gonna go on to have a bloody good career,” he said.