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CelebNews@Usmagazine.com! - Simon Cowell to Sanjaya: "I Sort of Miss You"

American Idol's Sanjaya Malakar got a little love from Simon Cowell.

In a video message to Extra, the judge told the season six singer: "Hello, Sanjaya. In a strange way, I sort of miss you."

Cowell famously threatened to quit the show if Malakar was crowned the winner, declaring, "He's not going to win!"

But Malakar has no hard feelings these days. His response?

"Well, thank you, Simon," Malakar, 18, responded, according to Extra. "I kind of miss you, too."

See photos of Idols: where are they now?

Malakar is milking his 15 minutes of fame. He sings in a new nationwide Mutual Insurance Company commercial (Kevin Federline also starred in a spot for them) and is recording an album.

The singer's interview with Extra wouldn't be complete without bringing up his most famous feature: his hair.

So is it gel or hairspray to tame the mane?

"I actually prefer water," he said. "Mousse and gel are gross – makes my hair all crusty."

See more controversial hairstyles.

Tell Us: Do you miss Sanjaya or other past Idols?

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