Simon Cowell Emotionally Reunites With Dancer He Funded Life-Changing Surgery For
Photo by: Trae Patton/NBC Reading Time: 2 minutes
Simon Cowell had a heartwarming reunion with Julia Carlile on the latest episode of America’s Got Talent: Fantasy League after paying for surgery that saved her dance career. Carlile and her troupe Mersey Girls took the Fantasy League stage, bringing Cowell to tears.
Simon Cowell Moved By Second Chance He Gave Young Dancer
In 2017, Cowell paid nearly $300,000 for spinal surgery so Carlile could continue dancing after a scoliosis diagnosis. On Monday’s show, Carlile explained how Cowell “completely changed” her life with his generosity.
Cowell helped fly the UK dancer to America for the operation after meeting her on Britain’s Got Talent. Cowell emotionally told fellow judge Howie Mandel ahead of Carlile’s new AGT performance.
“Wow, buddy. This is not your child and you took care of her. I’m really impressed.” Mandel said.
After Mersey Girls’ routine, Cowell hugged Carlile on stage, overjoyed to see the teen whose dream he saved now living it. Carlile called the experience “ecstatic,” while her troupe mate said having Cowell’s support “changed our lives.”
Spice Girls member Mel B drafted the inspirational dance group onto her Fantasy League team after their journey moved her. Ahead of the performance, the dance crew admitted that they hope to win the spinoff competition.
Their routine received mixed reviews from judges, who called it “snoozy” and said it lacked greatness. However, Cowell and Mel B praised the dancers’ passion and persistence despite adversity.
“You deserve it,” Cowell told them, predicting the audience would push them through. Sadly, Mersey Girls didn’t get enough viewer votes to advance.
Why Simon Cowell Decided to Help Julia Carlile
While their time on Fantasy League was bittersweet, it allowed Mersey Girls to share their inspirational journey in America and reunite with Cowell. His life-changing support of funding Carlile’s scoliosis surgery years ago gave her dance career a second chance.
Cowell has said the talented teen who touched his heart deeply “inspired” him to extend this generous offer of help. Although Mersey Girls didn’t advance far this time, Cowell gave Carlile the incredible gift of being able to dance for life.
His selfless act provided hope and allowed the dancers to keep bravely pursuing their shared passion. As Cowell’s support helped demonstrate – even when faced with daunting obstacles, never give up on a dream. With belief in yourself and the kindness of others, living out your passion is still possible against the odds.
