The 10 Most Iconic Simon Cowell Moments in Talent Show History
Fox Reading Time: 4 minutes
Simon Cowell is one of the most well-known names in the talent show world. He’s responsible for starting the careers of some of our favorite artists, and now we’re looking back at some of the most iconic moments of his career. As a judge on shows like American Idol, The X Factor, and Got Talent, we have a lot to choose from.
Simon Discovers One Direction On ‘X Factor’
The members of One Direction auditioned for The X Factor separately in 2010 before the show decided to put them together in a group. “It was my idea,” Simon has said, adding, “I just said, ‘Why don’t we put these guys into a group?’ It took 10 minutes!” Simon ended up signing the group to his record label Syco, and the rest is history.
Simon Starts ‘American Idol’
Most Americans were introduced to Simon Cowell in 2002, when he judged American Idol. His signature black T-shirt and blunt feedback for bad singers became instantly iconic. “I can honestly say you are the worst singer in America,” he told one hopeful.
SIMON COWELL LOOKS UNRECOGNIZABLE IN NUDE BATH TIME THROWBACK PICTURE
Simon Hits The ‘Got Talent’ Golden Buzzer
Simon has hit the Golden Buzzer for several acts during his time on America’s Got Talent, but one of the most memorable was Tyler Butler-Figueroa in Season 14. The young violinist shared that he had been bullied. “Most people are bullied because they’re better than the people who bully them,” Simon said, before hitting the buzzer.
Simon Brings His Son Eric To ‘BGT’
In 2014, Simon welcomed his son Eric with girlfriend Lauren Silverman. He’s said having a son has softened him when it comes to judging people, especially kids. In 2017, Simon even brought Eric to the BGT judging table. He couldn’t resist following in his dad’s footsteps and pressing the red buzzer.
Simon vs. Mel B On ‘AGT’
Who could forget Simon’s bickering with fellow AGT judge Mel B? “You were successful without being able to dance,” he told her at one point, prompting her to throw her water at him. It looks like becoming a dad didn’t change him entirely.
Simon Saves Sara & Hero On ‘AGT’
In 2017, Simon defended a dog act called Sara & Hero on America’s Got Talent. Howie Mandel and Mel B voted no to the act, prompting Simon to step on stage and beg them to change their votes. Howie agreed to vote yes, sending Sara and Hero through. They ended up finishing the competition in fifth place.
Simon Clashes With Mason Noise On ‘X Factor’
Simon is no stranger to clashes with contestants, but one of his biggest arguments was with X Factor contestant Mason Noise in 2015. The singer complained that his audition didn’t get enough air time, prompting Simon to tell him to “shut it,” adding, “Don’t come on and insult my show and insult these producers.” He asked Mason to leave the stage.
Simon’s Wedding For Comic Relief
Simon has never been married, but in 2013, he appeared in a Comic Relief sketch depicting a fake wedding. Several famous people were in attendance, with David Walliams and Olly Murs interrupting the ceremony. In the end, Simon turned out to be marrying … himself.
SIMON COWELL ALMOST GAVE HIS SON A DIFFERENT NAME BUT FEARED HE WOULD BE BULLIED
Simon Helps Contestant After Fire
In 2018, Simon showed off his big heart when he helped X Factor contestant Scarlett Lee after her home burned down. He sent her and her family hampers full of toys and other items to help out. Scarlett called Simon “the kindest person I will ever meet.”
Simon Judges ‘AGT’ In Pajamas
Simon Cowell showed his silly side when America’s Got Talent went virtual this season. After seeing fellow judge Heidi Klum in her pajamas, he changed into his own matching set. He stayed in the cozy outfit while he watched audition videos.
