Simon Cowell reveals whether he ever regrets his brutal talent show judge demeanour as he reflects on his career

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Simon Cowell has revealed whether he ever regrets his brutal talent show judge demeanour.

The 66-year-old entertainment executive became famous as a judge on shows like The X Factor, American Idol, and Britain’s Got Talent, known for his direct and often critical feedback.

He recently opened up about his career in a new interview, explaining that his past actions stemmed from a desire to be honest and avoid misleading anyone.

When asked if he ever went too far, he told Rolling Stone that everyone occasionally regrets something they’ve said.

It’s actually more helpful to be honest with someone who doesn’t have a natural gift. Don’t keep believing that practice alone will make you a famous singer if you simply don’t have the ability.

I won’t mislead people or give them false encouragement. For example, if my son Eric told me he wanted to be a singer, and I honestly thought he was a terrible singer, I’d tell him the truth. I wouldn’t lie to him just to spare his feelings.

Simon shares Eric, 11, with his partner Lauren Silverman.

In the interview he also spoke out on Liam Payne’s death, revealing their final conversation.

I remember when Louis Tomlinson came to my home about a year before his tragic passing. It was such a shock to hear about his death in Buenos Aires on October 16, 2024 – he sadly fell from a balcony on the third floor of the Casa Sur Palmero Hotel. It’s a memory I’ll always cherish, knowing how vibrant and full of life he was.

Simon, who launched Liam’s career at age 14 on the 2010 season of X Factor by putting him in One Direction, says Liam seems to be doing well now. However, Simon wonders if he could have done more to support him.

While promoting his new Netflix show, Simon Cowell: The Next Act, Simon Cowell reflected on his past, wondering if he could have done more to help Liam Payne. He questioned what Liam’s life might have been like if he hadn’t joined One Direction.

But he insisted he doesn’t feel responsible for how Liam’s life played out.

Simon met Liam when he auditioned for X Factor for the very first time at the age of 14.

When Simon heard about the singer’s passing, he shared a heartfelt message remembering him as a kind, funny, and gifted performer who always appreciated his fans.

He told Liam he was completely heartbroken and felt lost. He wanted Liam to know how much he loved and respected him, saying that every tear he’d cried was a reminder of their time together.

Ugh, I’m a mess right now, seriously. I just stepped outside today, and suddenly it hit me – all these amazing memories of them just flooded back. Every little thing we did together… it’s like a movie playing in my head, and I can’t stop thinking about it.

I wanted to share the answer I consistently gave to the many people who asked me this question.

If someone were to ask me what Liam was like, I’d say he was kind, funny, sweet, and thoughtful. He was also incredibly talented and humble, and really dedicated to his work. Plus, he truly loved music and cared deeply about his fans.

I remember having to explain to you, when you were fourteen, that the moment wasn’t right. We promised each other we’d reconnect someday.

Many would have quit, but you persevered. You returned, and soon everyone knew Liam’s story.

You always remembered the people who supported you, and I noticed how much time you took to connect with your fans. It was clear you genuinely cared about them.

You visited me last year, not for any particular reason, but just to chat. We spent the time remembering all the good times we shared.

I’ll always remember how much joy you found in being a father. Even after you were gone, it was clear you were still the same gentle, loving person I first met so long ago.

He continued: ‘I have met your son, Bear. He has your smile and that twinkle in his eyes you have.

After Liam’s funeral, Simon was seen embracing his parents, Geoff and Karen, offering them support and comfort.

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2025-11-25 19:51