
Simon Cowell, best known as a brutally honest judge on talent shows, has built an empire around his name. Starting as an assistant at EMI Records, Simon dropped out of school and initially struggled, with two failed labels leading him back to live with his parents. Yet, he viewed this setback as a relief.
His rise to fame began with Pop Idol in the early 2000s. Known for his trademark tight T-shirts and sharp critiques starting with, “I don’t mean to be rude, but,” Simon quickly became a household name. The show’s success, highlighted by Kelly Clarkson’s win, drew over 26 million viewers, marking the start of his multimillion-dollar career.
Simon transitioned to American Idol and later America’s Got Talent and The X Factor. He earned millions annually, not just from appearances but also merchandise. In 2020, his earnings exceeded $50 million, with a career total surpassing $600 million.
Now living in Malibu with his partner, Lauren Silverman, and their son, Eric, Simon enjoys his wealth while supporting charities. Despite health challenges, he continues to thrive, reshaping both his diet and career.