Following the sad news, tributes are pouring in on social media, with one fan writing: “Absolutely heartbreaking, RIP. Sleep well.”
Another person says: “What a legend! I used to love seeing him on the screen! RIP.”
“So sorry for your loss, sending you all love, hugs, and prayers at this difficult time,” a third comments.
Bodyguard Tony Adkins, known more commonly as ‘Big Tony,’ has died aged 64.
Adkins had a distinct and unforgettable role in the iconic British TV show X Factor, he was often seen dramatically removing contestants who refused to leave or if they became hostile towards the judges.
Some of the most memorable clips in the show’s history often show ‘Big Tony’ appearing on screen to tackle an angry contestant.
The 64-year-old was by Simon Cowell’s side for eight years, for his time on the talent show came to an end in 2009.
Once Adkins’s time working on the show and for Cowell ended, he shared nothing but praise for the music mogul.
Adkins told the Mirror: “Simon was so laid-back and a very nice guy.
“He was generous, too. Whenever the show finished – and at Christmas – you’d get an envelope as a thank you. The last one I got had £700 stuffed in it.”
The former bodyguard added: “He’s a very private person. He doesn’t give much away. You never see him drunk or out of control.
“Simon is vain – he does his hair all the time.”
Adkins revealed that Cowell had around ’20 identical T-shirts,’ sharing a memory of when the judge found a hole in one, so he pulled another from a large pile of T-shirts he had.
The X Factor legend also played the role of a giant in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2.
The heartbreaking news of Adkins’ passing was confirmed by his cousin on social media.
The family member penned: “It is with great sadness that my family would like to announce that my cousin Big Tony, Simon Cowell’s ex-bodyguard, passed away on Easter Sunday while on a Rugby Tour.
“He was a lovable Rogue and will be missed very much, RIP Big T.”
Adkins’ rugby club, Hammersmith and Fulham RFC, which he’d been a part of for 40 years, shared: “It is with immense sadness that Hammersmith & Fulham RFC pays tribute to a true gent and great Hammer, Tony Adkins, who passed away on Easter Sunday whilst on tour with the Club in Poland.”
The post continued: “More than a Rugby player, Tony found a niche later in life under the bright lights, serving as a long-time bodyguard for Simon Cowell during his time on X Factor, and featuring in the Harry Potter franchise as a giant, which all agreed was fitting.”
Cowell has not yet publicly commented on his former bodyguard’s death.
