Oprah Winfrey to Leona Lewis: "You're the real deal girl"

British singing sensation Leona Lewis got her bid to crack the States off to a flying start as chatshow host Oprah Winfrey told her: "You're the real deal girl."

The X Factor winner was introduced to American TV viewers by mentor Simon Cowell on Oprah's show.

And she wowed them by belting out her smash hit 'Bleeding Love', which she is hoping will help her conquer America.

After Leona received a standing ovation from the studio audience, Oprah said: "Talk about a star is born."

Cowell said he had been "dying" to launch his protégé? in the States and added: "I love this girl."