Hard to believe, but between their constant bickering, Ryan Seacrest and Simon Cowell are actually "friends" ... at least in Ryan's mind.
The "American Idol" host appeared told Ellen DeGeneres today, where he said "We have a very competitive spirit and attitude on the show but were friends. I would be there for him if he needed a loan or something ... because he's really hurting."
Despite being buds, Seacrest says he loves to approach the judges table ... solely because it makes Simon "really uncomfortable."
