Simon Cowell is an English television personality known for judging talent shows and his entrepreneurial ventures. He gained fame through judging popular shows like Pop Idol, The X Factor (both US and UK versions), Britain's Got Talent, and America's Got Talent. In 2005, he established the entertainment company Syco, succeeding his previous venture, Syco Music, founded in 2002.
1918: Birth of Simon Cowell's Father
Eric Cowell, Simon Cowell's father, was born in 1918.
1925: Birth of Simon Cowell's Mother
Julie Brett, Simon Cowell's mother, was born in 1925.
1956: Inspiration from Opportunity Knocks and New Faces
Cowell has acknowledged the influence of British talent shows like Opportunity Knocks, which premiered in 1956, on the development of the Got Talent format. These shows, featuring a diverse range of performers and incorporating audience voting, resonated with Cowell's vision.
October 1959: Birth of Simon Cowell
Simon Phillip Cowell was born in Lambeth, London in October 1959.
October 1959: Birth of Simon Cowell
Simon Phillip Cowell was born in Lambeth, London in October 1959. His mother, Julie Brett, was a ballet dancer, and his father, Eric Cowell, worked in real estate and music.
1980: Early Jobs and Entry into the Music Industry
In 1980, after attending various schools, Cowell took on different jobs before entering the music industry with the help of his father at EMI Music Publishing.
1983: Formation and Departure from E&S Music
Cowell left EMI to co-found E&S Music in the early 1980s but subsequently left the company in 1983.
1986: First Hit Song with Fanfare Records
Cowell achieved his first hit song in 1986 with Sinitta's "So Macho," released under his Fanfare Records label.
1989: Financial Challenges and Near Bankruptcy
Cowell's company, Fanfare Records, faced significant financial difficulties in 1989, leading to its collapse and Cowell nearing bankruptcy.
1995: Success with Robson & Jerome and Signing New Acts
In 1995, Cowell relaunched his career by signing Robson & Jerome, achieving a number one hit with "Unchained Melody." He continued his success by signing acts like Five, Westlife, and Teletubbies.
1999: Death of Simon Cowell's Father
Eric Cowell, Simon Cowell's father, died in 1999.
February 2001: Pitching Pop Idol
In February 2001, Simon Cowell and Simon Fuller pitched their idea for a new talent show, Pop Idol, which later became a success and a model for similar shows.
2001: Judge on Pop Idol and Rise to Prominence
Cowell became a judge on Pop Idol in 2001, with the show becoming a success and contributing to his growing prominence.
2001: Cowell's Public Prominence
In 2001, Simon Cowell came to public prominence as a judge on Pop Idol, a show he co-created and pitched to ITV.
2002: Relationship with Terri Seymour Begins
Simon Cowell began dating English presenter Terri Seymour in 2002.
2002: Judge on American Idol and Critical Reputation
Cowell began his run as a judge on American Idol in 2002, solidifying his reputation for being a critical judge, often compared to personalities like Judge Judy.
November 2003: Cowell on Children in Need
In November 2003, Simon Cowell participated in the BBC's Children in Need telethon, entertaining viewers with a daring stunt that raised funds for the charity.
December 2003: "I Don't Mean to be Rude, but..." Hits Shelves
Simon Cowell released his autobiography, "I Don't Mean to be Rude, but...", in December 2003, sharing insights into his life, career, and experiences in the music industry.
2003: Appearance on World Idol
Cowell appeared on the special program World Idol in 2003, showcasing the global impact of the Idol franchise.
2004: Cowell's Game Show Appearances
In 2004, Simon Cowell showcased his knowledge and personality by appearing on Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? and Saturday Night Live, demonstrating his versatility as a television personality.
2004: Creation of The X Factor
In 2004, Simon Cowell, along with Sharon Osbourne and Louis Walsh, debuted as a judge on the inaugural season of The X Factor, a British music competition series he conceived through his production company, Syco TV.
2004: Creation of The X Factor
Simon Cowell created The X Factor in 2004, which became a successful television franchise globally.
2004: Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People
Simon Cowell was acknowledged as one of Time magazine's 100 most influential people globally in 2004.
2004: Time's 100 Most Influential People
Simon Cowell was named one of the 100 most influential people in the world by Time magazine in 2004.
2005: Cowell's Horse Racing Venture
As a partner in the Royal Ascot Racing Club, Simon Cowell experienced the thrill of victory in 2005 when their horse, Motivator, won the prestigious Epsom Derby.
2005: Formation of Syco
Simon Cowell established his company, Syco, in 2005, venturing into music, television, and film production.
2005: Australian The X Factor Debut
The Australian adaptation of The X Factor premiered on Network Ten in 2005, featuring judges Mark Holden, Kate Ceberano, and John Reid. However, the show faced cancellation after a single season due to low ratings.
March 2006: Premiere of American Inventor
In March 2006, American Inventor, a reality show co-produced by Simon Cowell and Peter Jones premiered on ABC. The show featured aspiring entrepreneurs pitching product ideas.
June 2006: America's Got Talent Premieres
In June 2006, America's Got Talent, with Cowell serving as executive producer, debuted on NBC. The show proved to be a significant triumph for the network, attracting an average of 12 million viewers weekly and outperforming Fox's So You Think You Can Dance in the ratings.
November 2006: Debut Album of Angelis
Inspired by the success of Il Divo, Cowell created the child operatic pop group Angelis, whose debut album was released in November 2006.
2006: Creation of Got Talent
Cowell continued his success in television by creating Got Talent in 2006, another successful franchise.
2006: Cowell's First Winning Mentee Since 2006
In the 2014 season of The X Factor UK, Cowell mentored both Ben Haenow and Fleur East, who became the final two contestants. This marked his first win as a mentor since 2006, when he guided both Leona Lewis and Ray Quinn to the final.
2006: From Idol Judge to Talk Show Host
During the American Idol finalist week in early 2006, Simon Cowell stepped in as a guest host on Live with Regis and Kelly, showcasing his ability to connect with audiences in a live talk show setting.
2006: Celebrity Duets Hits the Screen
In 2006, Simon Cowell served as executive producer for Celebrity Duets, a singing competition featuring celebrities, hosted by Wayne Brady and judged by Marie Osmond, Little Richard, and David Foster.
June 2007: Debut of Britain's Got Talent
Britain's Got Talent, featuring Cowell as a judge alongside Amanda Holden and Piers Morgan, premiered on ITV in June 2007 and quickly gained popularity, leading to subsequent seasons.
June 2007: This Is Your Life: Simon Cowell
Simon Cowell was the subject of an episode of the re-launched British edition of This Is Your Life in June 2007, a testament to his impact on the entertainment industry. The episode aired on ITV and featured a surprise appearance by Sir Trevor McDonald.
July 2007: Concert for Diana
In July 2007, Simon Cowell appeared as a speaker at the Concert for Diana, a tribute to Princess Diana held at Wembley Stadium in London. The event benefitted charities supported by Princess Diana and her sons, Princes William and Harry.
August 2007: Return to The X Factor and Judging Panel Changes
Cowell returned for the fourth season of The X Factor in August 2007 alongside Sharon Osbourne, Louis Walsh, and new judge Dannii Minogue. Walsh, who had been briefly replaced by Brian Friedman, was brought back after a week due to the judges' realization that the panel lacked chemistry without him.
November 2007: Cowell Returns to Top Gear
Simon Cowell made another appearance on Top Gear in November 2007, demonstrating his driving skills and competitive spirit as he aimed for a fast lap time.
2007: Second Season of American Inventor
American Inventor returned for a second season in 2007, continuing to provide a platform for inventors to showcase their creations.
2007: Grease Is the Word: A Casting Search
Simon Cowell executive-produced Grease Is the Word for ITV in 2007, a show aiming to find actors to play Danny and Sandy in a West End revival of Grease. The show, hosted by Zoë Ball, received mixed reviews.
2008: Relationship with Terri Seymour Ends
Simon Cowell and Terri Seymour ended their relationship after six years of dating.
2008: Special Recognition Award at the National Television Awards
Simon Cowell received the Special Recognition Award, presented by Andrew Lloyd Webber, at the National Television Awards at the Royal Albert Hall in 2008.
2008: Recognition by The Daily Telegraph and National Television Awards
In 2008, Cowell's influence was acknowledged when The Daily Telegraph listed him among the 100 most powerful people in British culture, and he received the Special Recognition Award at the National Television Awards.
2008: Cheryl Cole Joins The X Factor Judging Panel
In 2008, for the fifth season of The X Factor, Cowell returned with Louis Walsh, Dannii Minogue, and new judge Cheryl Cole, replacing Sharon Osbourne.
2008: Rock Rivals: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Talent Shows
In 2008, Simon Cowell collaborated with Shed Media to produce Rock Rivals, an ITV drama series inspired by the world of The X Factor and other talent shows.
2008: Second Season of Britain's Got Talent
Following the success of its first season, Britain's Got Talent returned for a second season in 2008.
October 2009: Article on Pop Idol's Impact
An article in The Guardian in October 2009 highlighted the significant impact of Pop Idol on television entertainment.
2009: Third Season of Britain's Got Talent
Britain's Got Talent continued its run with a third season in 2009.
2009: Cowell's Support for Children's Hospices UK
Simon Cowell served as a patron for Children's Hospices UK from 2009 to 2011, demonstrating his commitment to charitable causes.
January 2010: Simon Cowell Leaves American Idol
In January 2010, Simon Cowell officially left American Idol after eight seasons. He was replaced by Steven Tyler.
May 2010: Cowell Lends His Voice to The Simpsons
Simon Cowell guest-starred as himself in the May 2010 episode of The Simpsons titled "Judge Me Tender," showcasing his humor and willingness to poke fun at his own persona.
October 2010: Cowell Renews Contracts for Britain's Got Talent and The X Factor
In October 2010, Cowell committed to new three-year agreements with ITV, extending the runs of both Britain's Got Talent and The X Factor until 2013.
2010: Revival of Australian The X Factor
The Australian version of The X Factor was brought back in 2010, this time airing on the Seven Network. The show enjoyed a successful run until 2016 when it faced another cancellation due to a decline in ratings.
2010: Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People
Simon Cowell was, again, acknowledged as one of Time magazine's 100 most influential people globally in 2010.
2010: Support for David Cameron
Simon Cowell publicly supported David Cameron, the Conservative Party leader at the time, for Prime Minister of the United Kingdom in 2010. Cowell believed Cameron had the necessary qualities to lead Britain.
2010: Engagement to Mezhgan Hussainy
Simon Cowell became engaged to makeup artist Mezhgan Hussainy in 2010.
2010: Cowell Featured in Who's Who
In recognition of his achievements and influence, Simon Cowell was included in the 2010 edition of the UK's Who's Who, a prestigious directory of notable individuals.
2010: "Everybody Hurts" and Support for Haiti Earthquake Victims
In 2010, Simon Cowell played a significant role in producing the charity single "Everybody Hurts" to raise funds for victims of the devastating Haiti earthquake.
2010: Time's 100 Most Influential People (Again) and BAFTA Special Award
Cowell was again recognized by Time as one of the 100 most influential people in 2010, the same year he received a BAFTA Special Award for his contributions to entertainment.
April 2011: Cowell's Focus on American The X Factor
Contrary to earlier announcements, MTV confirmed in April 2011 that Cowell would not be a judge on both the UK and US versions of The X Factor. He transitioned to a behind-the-scenes role on the UK show to concentrate on his judging duties for the US version.
September 2011: Launch of American The X Factor
Cowell launched the American version of The X Factor on Fox in September 2011. The judging panel included Paula Abdul, L.A. Reid, Nicole Scherzinger, and initially, Cheryl Cole.
2011: Melanie Amaro Wins First Season of American The X Factor
Cowell's act, Melanie Amaro, emerged as the winner of the first season of American The X Factor in 2011, making him the winning judge.
2011: One Direction's Rise to Fame and Cowell's Departure from UK X Factor
Following his departure from the UK version of The X Factor in 2011 to concentrate on the US version, Cowell signed the boyband One Direction to his label after their third-place finish on the show's seventh season. The group went on to achieve global stardom. Cowell was replaced on the judging panel by Gary Barlow.
2011: Merger Creates Together for Short Lives
In 2011, Children's Hospices UK merged with another charity to form Together for Short Lives, continuing to provide vital support for children with life-limiting illnesses. Cowell continued his support for this cause.
2011: Launch of The X Factor USA
One year after Cowell's departure from American Idol, FOX acquired the rights to The X Factor USA, which launched in 2011.
2011: End of Engagement with Mezhgan Hussainy
Simon Cowell and Mezhgan Hussainy ended their engagement in 2011.
2011: Red or Black? A New Game Show Concept
Simon Cowell ventured into game show creation with Red or Black?, hosted by Ant & Dec, which premiered on ITV in 2011. The show challenged contestants to make high-stakes decisions based on chance.
2012: The New Elizabethans
Simon Cowell was featured in the BBC Radio 4 series "The New Elizabethans" in 2012, a series commemorating Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee. A panel recognized Cowell as one of the individuals whose actions significantly impacted the UK during the Queen's reign.
2012: Pride of Britain Awards
In 2012, at the Pride of Britain Awards, Simon Cowell, along with notable figures like Michael Caine, Elton John, Richard Branson, and Stephen Fry, recited Rudyard Kipling's poem "If—". Their performance was a tribute to athletes who participated in the 2012 British Olympic and Paralympics.
2012: Red or Black? Returns for Another Round
ITV renewed Red or Black? for a second series in 2012, bringing back the high-stakes guessing game for another season.
July 2013: Divorce of Andrew and Lauren Silverman
In July 2013, news broke that Andrew Silverman, a friend of Simon Cowell's, filed for divorce from his wife, Lauren Silverman. The divorce filing named Cowell as a co-respondent, alleging adultery. It was reported that Cowell and Lauren Silverman were expecting a child together.
August 2013: Settlement of Silverman Divorce
In August 2013, Andrew and Lauren Silverman reached an out-of-court settlement for their divorce, preventing Simon Cowell from being involved in the proceedings. Cowell confirmed that he and Silverman were expecting a child together.
September 2013: Third Season of American The X Factor
Cowell returned for a third season of The X Factor in September 2013, joined by Demi Lovato. Britney Spears and L.A. Reid did not return, and Paulina Rubio and Kelly Rowland joined the judging panel as their replacements.
October 2013: Fundraising Event for Israeli Defense Forces
In October 2013, Simon Cowell participated in a fundraising event located in Los Angeles to support the Israeli Defense Forces. The event raised a total of $20 million, with Cowell personally donating $150,000.
October 2013: Speculation About Cowell's Return to UK X Factor
Reports emerged in October 2013, suggesting that Cowell might return to the UK version of The X Factor for its eleventh season, potentially taking over from Gary Barlow.
November 2013: Extension of Britain's Got Talent and The X Factor Contracts
Cowell's three-year contract with ITV, encompassing both Britain's Got Talent and The X Factor, was further extended by three years in November 2013, ensuring their continuation until 2016.
2013: Contradiction of Previous Political Support and Stance on Voting
In 2013, Simon Cowell contradicted his prior endorsement of David Cameron. In an interview, he revealed he had never voted in an election, despite having supported candidates.
2013: The You Generation: Online Video Competition Launches
Partnering with YouTube, Simon Cowell launched The You Generation in 2013, a competition inviting aspiring video creators to showcase their talent on a global platform.
2013: Food Glorious Food: A Culinary Journey Begins
Simon Cowell took on the role of executive producer for the ITV cookery series Food Glorious Food in 2013, hosted by Carol Vorderman.
2013: TV Guide's 60 Nastiest Villains of All Time
TV Guide included Simon Cowell in their 2013 list of "The 60 Nastiest Villains of All Time," ranking him at number 10.
2013: The X Factor's 10th Season
The X Factor achieved substantial success, culminating in its tenth season in 2013.
February 2014: Birth of Eric Cowell
Lauren Silverman gave birth to Simon Cowell's son, Eric, on February 14, 2014.
February 2014: Confirmation of Cowell's Return to UK X Factor and Cancellation of US Version
Cowell's return to the UK version of The X Factor was officially confirmed in February 2014, prompting Fox to cancel the US version after three seasons. He rejoined judges Louis Walsh, Cheryl Fernandez-Versini (replacing Sharon Osbourne), and new addition Mel B (replacing Nicole Scherzinger).
2014: Got Talent Recognized as World's Most Successful Reality TV Format
Guinness World Records recognized Got Talent as the world's most successful reality TV format in 2014, with adaptations in over 68 countries. Cowell expressed pride in the British origin of the show and acknowledged the contributions of talented producers and performers worldwide to its global success.
March 2015: Cowell Defends Jeremy Clarkson
In March 2015, Simon Cowell publicly defended Top Gear presenter Jeremy Clarkson following Clarkson's suspension by the BBC for an altercation, expressing support for his friend and colleague.
October 2015: Cowell Joins America's Got Talent
In October 2015, Simon Cowell joined the judging panel of America's Got Talent, replacing Howard Stern.
2015: Death of Simon Cowell's Mother
Julie Brett, Simon Cowell's mother, passed away in 2015.
2016: Keep it in the Family: A Family Game Show Arrives
In 2016, Simon Cowell executive-produced Keep it in the Family, a game show hosted by Bradley Walsh, for ITV.
2016: Contractual Extension of Britain's Got Talent and The X Factor
In November 2013, Cowell secured a three-year contract extension with ITV for both Britain's Got Talent and The X Factor, ensuring the shows would remain on air until 2016.
2016: Support for Remaining in the EU
Simon Cowell expressed his support for the UK staying in the European Union during the 2016 EU referendum.
2016: Decline and Second Cancellation of Australian The X Factor
The Australian version of The X Factor experienced declining ratings during its eighth season in 2016, leading to its eventual cancellation. This marked the second time the show was axed.
January 2017: Cancellation of Australian The X Factor
In January 2017, the Australian version of The X Factor, which debuted in 2005 on Network Ten and was later revived by the Seven Network in 2010, was canceled for a second time due to declining viewership.
June 2017: "Bridge over Troubled Water" Charity Single
To aid the families impacted by the Grenfell Tower fire in June 2017, Simon Cowell spearheaded the production of the charity single "Bridge over Troubled Water." Featuring artists like Robbie Williams, Dua Lipa, Roger Daltrey, and Rita Ora, the single achieved the top spot on the UK Singles Chart. Proceeds went to The London Community Foundation.
August 2018: Hollywood Walk of Fame Star
Simon Cowell was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in the Television category on August 22, 2018.
2018: Hollywood Walk of Fame Star
Simon Cowell received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2018 in the television category.
2018: The Greatest Dancer Announced
In 2018, it was announced that Simon Cowell created The Greatest Dancer, a dance competition set to air on BBC One.
January 2019: The Greatest Dancer Premieres
The Greatest Dancer, Simon Cowell's first show for the BBC, premiered in January 2019. The show featured dancers of various styles competing for a cash prize and a chance to perform on Strictly Come Dancing.
December 2019: Cowell Signs Five-Year Deal for Britain's Got Talent
Cowell secured a five-year agreement with ITV in December 2019, guaranteeing the continuation of Britain's Got Talent on the channel until 2024.
2019: Vegan Lifestyle and Wealth Ranking
In 2019, Simon Cowell adopted a vegan lifestyle following medical advice to improve his health. The Sunday Times Rich List also recognized him as one of the wealthiest individuals in the UK, estimating his net worth at £385 million.
April 2020: Canadian Family's Got Talent Goes Virtual
In April 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Simon Cowell served as a judge on Canadian Family's Got Talent, a virtual spin-off of Canada's Got Talent, broadcast on Citytv.
August 2020: Electric Motorcycle Accident and Dietary Change
In August 2020, Simon Cowell experienced a back injury from a fall off his new electric motorcycle at his Malibu, California residence. The accident required him to undergo back surgery. To regain his strength, Cowell resumed consuming animal products.
December 2020: Cowell Announced as Judge for The X Factor Israel
In December 2020, it was revealed that Cowell had agreed to serve as a judge on the 2021 season of The X Factor Israel.
2020: The Greatest Dancer Renewed for a Second Series
A second series of The Greatest Dancer was announced, scheduled to air in 2020, showcasing more diverse dance talent.
May 2021: Cowell Withdraws from The X Factor Israel
In May 2021, Cowell made the decision to withdraw from his judging role on The X Factor Israel, citing the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict as the reason.
January 2022: Engagement to Lauren Silverman
Simon Cowell and Lauren Silverman announced their engagement in January 2022.
2023: "Wishfits" Book Series Launch
Simon Cowell collaborated with his son to write a seven-book series, "Wishfits," with plans to release it in 2023.
2024: Britain's Got Talent to Remain on ITV Until 2024
As per the five-year contract signed in December 2019, Britain's Got Talent is set to remain on ITV until at least 2024.