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X Factor Legend Big Tony Dies at 64 After Close 8-Year Work with Simon Cowell

BBG News

A renowned figure from the X Factor passed away at the age of 64, having spent eight years collaborating extensively with Simon Cowell on the program.

Tony Adkins, often called “Big Tony,” sadly passed away during an Easter Sunday rugby trip. This tragic news was shared on social media by a relative of his.

Tony frequently collaborated with Simon in a protective role for the ITV series, and additionally portrayed a colossal character in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part Two, released in 2011.

My cousin has shared the heartbreaking news that his relative, affectionately known as Big Tony, who used to work as Simon Cowell’s bodyguard, sadly passed away during a Rugby Tour on Easter Sunday.

‘He was a loveable Rogue and will be missed very much, RIP Big T.’

Hammersmith and Fulham Rugby Football Club expressed their own heartfelt tribute to Tony on Facebook, saying: “With deep sorrow, Hammersmith & Fulham RFC honors a genuine gentleman and exceptional club member, Tony Adkins, who tragically passed away on Easter Sunday during our tour in Poland.

Tony has been a true West Ham fan throughout his life, having joined the team around 40 years ago along with his Henry Compton School friends and esteemed West Ham legends Ray Bateman, Dick Wayman, Pascal Peters, Dave Clark, as well as teachers Martin Williams, Ed Naylor, Doug Bone, and John Mathewman.

As a professional forward primarily playing as a tighthead prop, Tony continued to lace up his boots well into the 21st century, and he was also part of the team that celebrated their 25th anniversary with a special match.

At his core, Tony was an enthusiastic ambassador for touring, particularly with the Rugby team from Hammers. There wasn’t anything he enjoyed more than spreading the Hammers rugby spirit beyond the city limits of London.

He played for the team across Britain and Europe, beginning with his initial tour in Brixham and subsequently earning touring accolades from distant locations such as Barcelona, Prague, and Amsterdam.

Although his departure is difficult to accept, there’s a sense of solace for those who knew him, knowing that he departed while engaged in something he cherished – traveling with his companions on tour.

Beyond being just a Rugby player, Tony discovered a unique role in his later years, shining under the spotlight. He spent many years serving as a long-standing bodyguard for Simon Cowell during his X-Factor days, and he even made an appearance in the Harry Potter series as a giant, a part that everyone thought was perfectly suited to him.

Everyone who knew him will surely miss his warm-heartedness and kindness, and we extend our deepest sympathies to his family. Farewell, Tony.

Following his departure from his role as a bodyguard on The X Factor, Tony opened up about working alongside the music tycoon in an exclusive chat with The Mirror.

He said: ‘Simon was so laid-back and a very nice guy.

He was also quite generous. After each performance of the show, as well as during Christmas, you would receive an envelope as a token of appreciation. The most recent one I received contained £700 inside.

‘He’s a very private person. He doesn’t give much away. You never see him drunk or out of control.’

Tony went onto reveal that Simon was ‘vain’ and would ‘do his hair’ during an break from filming.  

Over the past few years, a number of previous participants from The X Factor have spoken critically about the show, among them being Katie Waissel, Rebecca Ferguson, Cher Lloyd, and Jedward.

In October, the previous victor, Matt Terry, criticized the show, expressing his hope that it will “never” come back on-screen again, stating that it isn’t beneficial for viewers.

In 2016, the performer clinched the thirteenth season of ITV’s show and soon after, got a record deal with Simon Cowell’s label, Syco.

However, achieving fame isn’t effortless for numerous contestants on the series, as Matt notes that several former participants continue to grapple with its challenges even six years after the show concluded.

When asked about the possibility of the show returning, he informed TopMob, “Absolutely never! The show is subpar – it’s not beneficial for viewers. I am resilient, and I understand how to handle it myself.

You enter that place with a sense of anticipation, as my previous experience was as a waiter, so this was entirely new to me. Essentially, I was thrown into it without much preparation.

If X Factor returns, I’d like it to include a psychological segment to help viewers. Many individuals who auditioned prior to my time are still grappling with self-identity issues.

I’m overjoyed to have reached a point where I can say with confidence, ‘I accomplished that,’ yet it’s simply a chapter in my life’s book. This success doesn’t encapsulate my entire identity; I refuse to be defined by just this one aspect.

In the role of a devoted follower, I’m sharing that Matt, the artist who launched his debut album Trouble in 2017, opened up about his journey adapting to stardom following the success of the show.

He also found there was ‘no support’ when the series ended and he ‘struggled’ after.

In simpler terms, he expressed that after the performance ended, it seemed as if he sent you out into the vast world all by yourself. He didn’t provide any assistance, and he didn’t fully understand this at the time.

When I left the show, it significantly transformed my life, providing numerous opportunities. However, I encountered considerable struggles in its aftermath. Unfortunately, there was no one around to offer assistance during that time.

I’m thankful for having a great group of friends and a strong family, as not everyone is fortunate enough to have that. Essentially, it means recognizing that you are more than just a talent or achievement; you are Matt Terry, an individual.

A representative from The X Factor stated to TopMob that they prioritize the well-being of all individuals associated with their shows, and during Matt’s participation in 2016, substantial precautions were implemented to ensure the cast and crew’s support throughout the production process and beyond.

As an over-the-moon fan, I’d be thrilled to see a series that truly cares for its cast and crew. Imagine a support squad comprising psychologists, physicians, content creators, and legal and administrative experts, all dedicated to our beloved stars. This team would be on hand even after the final episode airs, with no expiration date on their care and guidance. That’s the kind of show I’d be obsessed with!

We frequently reassessed these strategies, and we’ve consistently stayed ahead by modifying and upgrading them for upcoming episodes to meet the demands of the program.

It is clear that during the auditions, bootcamp, and crucial phases of the competition, there was always a psychologist present. Additionally, a doctor was available to oversee the wellbeing checks of contestants and offer assistance throughout the show’s duration.

At the participant’s residence and in the studios, there was always a reliable point of contact, who served as a daily liaison and also acted as a welfare producer. This individual offered medical or psychological assistance, which was kept private and confidential.

Additionally, Matt mentioned Lucy Spraggan, a contestant on The X Factor who departed the show in 2012 following an unfortunate incident. During her time on the program, she was sexually assaulted by a hotel employee.

Matt expressed that he was taken aback by this development, which further demonstrates its significant progress. It didn’t occur during my time on the show, so I fervently hope it won’t return, for the sake of the contestants.

Former X Factor contestant Katie Waissel previously said the show ‘ruined’ her life.

During the duration of the singing contest, Waissel disclosed that she experienced an acid attack, death threats, as well as episodes of panic attacks and contemplated suicide.

After appearing on the show, the performer later chose to undergo therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder.

Additionally, she established the OWHL Foundation with a mission to assist individuals who find themselves in circumstances similar to hers. According to their website, this organization focuses on ensuring the well-being, human rights, and freedom of expression within the creative field.

Reflecting on contracts she agreed to while participating in The X Factor, she expressed this sentiment to The Times: “Many of us were unfairly bound and restricted, and the balance of power was heavily skewed in their favor.

At the age of 17, Cher Lloyd, who placed fourth in the 2010 season of X Factor, asserted that she felt deceived as she was promised an idealistic vision (a “dream”) during her time on the show, eventually experiencing exploitation instead.

In a TikTok duet, she sang: “How could I have been so gullible? They promised me a dream, only to take advantage of me.

As a devoted admirer, I’d like to express my belief in your potential for greatness. If you continue to work hard and perhaps find success with someone influential, you’ll undoubtedly make significant strides. Should your journey bring about success, as indicated by the rising popularity of your record, we’ll reap the benefits together.

Rebecca Ferguson asserts that the music business conceals appalling instances of human rights violations, and she alleges that she has faced persistent sexism and intimidation during her professional journey.

The contestant from the seventh season of the reality show, who ended up in second position, expressed that her experience was typical yet asserted that unacceptable behavior was being overlooked under the assumption that “one must tolerate it.

As a fervent admirer, I found myself standing among the ranks of ardent supporters, united by our shared passion for her artistry. Yet, she was not just any artist; she graced the stage as one who dared to confront the powers that be, to lend her voice to the Women and Equalities Committee in a groundbreaking investigation into misogyny and discrimination within the vibrant heart of the UK music scene.

During an interview on BBC Radio 4’s Today program in January, she stated: “Throughout my career, I’ve faced misogyny, bullying, and horrendous mistreatment. It seems that this issue is quite common in the music industry, as our investigation has shown.

‘It’s deeply rooted within the system, and I’m extremely pleased that the committee has requested immediate intervention from the government.’

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2025-05-18 21:21

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