Cowell, Simon Phillip (1959– )

English music and television producer. He is notorious for his acid tongue as a judge on the hit television series Pop Idol (2001, 2004) in the UK and American Idol (2002) in the USA, talent shows that he developed with producer Simon Fuller. As a record executive for BMG Records, he has produced 17 number-one singles and sales of more than 25 million albums for popular groups such as boy band Westlife. He is currently at RCA Records.

His nicknames include ‘Mr Mean’ and ‘Judge Dread’, referring to his harsh criticisms of aspiring pop singers. Though he has reduced several young singers to tears on the programme, he is popular for his quick, clever wit and what many view as accurate, honest assessments of talent. He is also known for his keen market sense. He executive produced the US dating show Cupid in 2003.

He was born in Brighton, England, and went to Dover College boarding school at the age of 14, but left when he was 16. Pursuing his interest in popular music, he worked in an entry level job at EMI, where he met aspiring pop singer Sinitta (1966– ). He helped her produce the single ‘So Macho’ (1987), which became a hit in the UK, launching his producing career.