Simon Cowell is showing a softer side, leaving behind the famously scathing critiques that once made him both feared and admired. The music mogul, 66, admits he has reflected on his past harshness on shows like Pop Idol and The X Factor, saying, “I did realise I’ve probably gone too far… I’m sorry. I’m not proud of it.” Yet, he acknowledges that his blunt style helped the shows achieve worldwide success.
Cowell is now focused on December 10, a talented and likeable seven-piece band he formed on his new Netflix series, Simon Cowell: The Next Act. The six-part show offers viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges of his work, revealing that his job goes far beyond pressing buzzers.
The tragic death of One Direction star Liam Payne, a former X Factor contestant, left a deep impact on Cowell. Payne’s death made him reconsider his approach to artist care, prompting a commitment to staying more connected with his new acts. “With these boys, I’m going to try as much as I can—through them, their parents, my team—just to always, always know,” he said.
Cowell also addressed past criticisms about contestant welfare, noting that most participants benefited from the fame and financial opportunities the show offered. “Over time, whether it’s discussions about mental health and duty of care, that has become much more something we think about, talk about, and acknowledge,” he explained.
Despite the softer approach, Cowell continues to launch talent with the same dedication that made him a global entertainment figure, shifting from fearsome judge to mentor and advocate for emerging artists.
