Music mogul Simon Cowell has given a remarkably frank interview, addressing a series of controversies that have surrounded his career, from legal action by former contestants to the tragic death of a global star he helped create.
Cowell's Candid Take on X Factor Legal Claims
In a new episode of The Rest Is Entertainment podcast, hosted by Richard Osman and Marina Hyde, Cowell spoke openly about disgruntled acts from The X Factor who have taken legal action against him. He revealed he feels some former contestants "have it in for him".
The 66-year-old, responsible for launching numerous successful music careers, defended his record. "You never sign someone in the hope they're gonna fail – that would be literally insane," he stated. He acknowledged that not every partnership works, citing a lack of connection with an artist or their audience as possible reasons.
Cowell was questioned specifically about acts "unionising" against him, including 2010 contestant Katie Waissel, who retrained as a solicitor and announced legal action against his Syco Entertainment company in 2023 for alleged breach of duty of care. In 2021, it was reported that six acts from the show had also taken action, alleging bullying and mistreatment.
His response was measured: "The vast majority of people who came on the show, they made a lot of money and got what they wanted, which was fame. Did it go exactly the way they wanted? Possibly not." He concluded that with certain individuals, "there's nothing I can do about that."
How Liam Payne's Death Changed His Perspective on Duty of Care
The conversation turned to the crucial topic of duty of care, which has come under intense scrutiny following the death of former One Direction star Liam Payne and mental health struggles shared by other alumni like Little Mix's Jesy Nelson.
Cowell admitted his views have evolved "a lot" over the years. "We've always tried, as much as we can, to look after our artists," he said, describing sending them into the "real world" with advice and infrastructure from major labels like Sony and BMG.
He emphasised that discussions around mental health and duty of care are now front of mind. "That has become much more something we think about, talk about and acknowledge. You have to," Cowell stated.
This shift was further explored when hosts questioned him about his new venture, The Next Act, which involves the parents of potential young band members. Asked if his own son, Eric, could consent to such a lifestyle at 15, Cowell was firm: "Yeah I do." He argued that with hundreds of thousands trying to break into the industry, such opportunities are vital, though he still believes major label support is crucial.
Laughing Off Louis Walsh's "Paid For" Jibes
Cowell also addressed the long-running public barbs from his former X Factor colleague, Louis Walsh. He confirmed they are still in contact, saying, "I hear from him, yeah."
He revealed the truth behind Walsh's frequent criticisms, such as those made during his 2024 Celebrity Big Brother stint where Walsh mocked Cowell's "stupid clothes and new faces." "When he goes on certain shows and mouths off about me I'm like, 'Louis! Why did you do that?'" Cowell recounted. "He said, 'Well they paid me a lot of money!' I said, 'I know but you didn't have to say that' and I just burst out laughing."
Reflecting more broadly, Cowell shared how becoming a father to Eric transformed his world, calling it a "game changer." While he harbours some life regrets, his focus is firmly on family. "I relive my childhood with Eric. The first Christmas they get, the first Halloween, Easter, everything. Everything becomes different," he enthused.
The interview peeled back the curtain on the complex legacy of one of television's most influential figures, balancing his trademark bluntness with a more reflective perspective shaped by personal loss and fatherhood.
