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Thursday, August 31, 2006
| TV Review: X Factor, ITV1 |
August 28, 2006
By John Anson for The Citizen
I've resisted until now but, sad to say, this weekend I succumbed.
Yes, I watched X-Factor, the annual talent show that specialises in highlighting what little talent there actually is out there.
Thankfully we are still at the initial audition' stages in which every no-hoper who really wants to be famous gets their Andy Warhol moment.
As comedy value, the early stages of X-Factor are worth watching - as are Simon Cowell's pantomime expressions.
Then you get the occasional classic moment such as the Louis Walsh fan club organiser (total membership 45) who was in awe meeting her hero in the flesh - much to the other judges' amusement.
But the most interesting segment, which is a microcosm of the whole show, was the incident of Kylie's mum.
Kylie represented thousands of X Factor contestants who have been told by family and friends that they are really talented, when in fact they're not.
With typical frankness, the judges refused to put her through.
Cue Kylie's mum who burst into the studio to tell them they'd got it wrong.
Every credit to Simon Cowell for standing firm and telling the woman that it was people like her who were deluding their children and giving them false hope.
But then again, isn't that what shows like X Factor need?
If everyone realised they were talentless then the auditions wouldn't make for weeks of Saturday night viewing.
| Tuning In--Cowell's Celebrities |
August 29, 2006
By Kelly Jane Torrance and Staff Writers for The Washington Times
Simon Cowell may have been booed on stage during Sunday's live Emmy telecast, but his bad-boy persona is responsible for the continuing success of "American Idol" and, more recently, "America's Got Talent." His latest venture, "Celebrity Duets," premieres tonight at 8 on Fox.
Wayne Brady hosts the series, which features eight celebrities not known for singing -- including actress Lucy Lawless ("Xena:Warrior Princess") and comic actor Cheech Marin -- competing to prove their vocal chops. For help, they'll be paired with singing superstars, such as Smokey Robinson and Patti LaBelle.
Little Richard, Marie Osmond and music producer David Foster will judge -- though their role as decision-makers will be a lot more difficult than that of the "Idol" judges.
"My experience with celebrities is that they'll be a lot more lippy," Mr. Cowell said during a recent conference call.
The impresario said finding eight celebrities willing to take a chance on stage wasn't difficult. "There are so many celebrities who wanted to come on this show who couldn't sing a note," Mr. Cowell reported. But he didn't want anybody merely for comedic value.
The competing stars may already be celebrities, but Mr. Cowell believes they're no less ambitious than "American Idol" contestants.
"I would like to think that at the end of the show, somebody will launch a successful recording career, because I think that's what they all want," he said. "They won't all admit that, but that's my hunch."
Mr. Cowell also offered advice to "American Idol" wannabes. "Be original. We hear so many third-rate, fourth-rate Mariah Carey impersonations."
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
| Will Celebrity Duets Be Another Hit For Simon Cowell? |
August 29, 2006
By Joe Reality for Reality TV Magazine
Simon Cowell has had a mixed track record when it comes to launching new reality TV shows in the U.S. While Cowell was a hit right from the start as a judge on American Idol, his first attempt at producing his own reality TV show didn't go quite so well. Back in 2003, Cowell's matchmaking reality show Cupid failed to find a large audience and was canceled after only one season.
By the time, Cowell tried his hand at American Inventor in 2006, most viewers had likely forgotten Cupid. American Inventor started off as a huge ratings hit but quickly faded as the season progressed. However, the overall ratings were strong enough that ABC renewed it for a second season (perhaps realizing that their own endless recap shows were at least partially to blame in the ratings decline).
If Cowell's first reality show was a strike and his second reality show was a base hit, then his third reality show proved to be an undeniable homerun. America's Got Talent was a runaway Summer hit and concluded its season as the #1 new original Summer series of 2006.
Tonight, Simon Cowell will launch yet another reality show with Celebrity Duets on Fox. Will this show be a failure like Cupid, start big but sink fast like American Inventor, or be a tremendous success like America's Got Talent? Odds are that Celebrity Duets will at the very least get off to a good start. Unlike three years ago when Cowell attempted to launch Cupid, his name alone has now grown to such stature that people will tune in initially just to see what it is all about.
Whether Celebrity Duets will then fade fast or go on to be a monster hit, really depends on the quality of the show. One thing that America's Got Talent had that seemed to be lacking in American Inventor was a sense of fun. While some of the inventors were very energetic on American Inventor, the show seemed to be filled with one sob story after another . The judges were at times entertaining, but they never came across like they were having a lot of fun as a group. On America's Got Talent, the judges did have chemistry and added an element of fun to the show.
Just on the surface, Celebrity Duets looks like it might have a good shot at re-creating the fun atmosphere of America's Got Talent. The judges are Little Richard, David Foster, and Marie Osmond, which should provide the right combination of harsh reality and wild wackiness. However, a lot will depend on how well the celebrities do at singing. VH1's "But Can They Sing?" proved that laughing at bad singing alone can't keep an audience tuning in. For Celebrity Duets to succeed, some of the celebrities will need to possess enough talent to give the audience someone to rally behind.
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
| Starry Night: TV's Best Hit the Emmy Red Carpet |
August 28, 2006
By Staff Writers for Extra TV
...Emmy excitement was everywhere. Well, almost everywhere.
"I've got to tell you, if you win, great. If you don't, who cares," Simon Cowell said.
"I mean seriously, it's not going to change my world particularly."
| Whole Lotta Singin' Going On |
August 29, 2006
By Hal Boedeker for The Orlando Sentinel
In Celebrity Duets, debuting tonight, Fox could have found a star-studded version of American Idol. At least, Fox has found the singing equivalent to ABC's Dancing With the Stars, which matches a pro with an amateur. Executive producer Simon Cowell acknowledges his inspiration.
"I really like Dancing With the Stars," says Cowell, the acerbic Idol judge. "I always felt the second I saw it that it would actually work as a better singing show than as a dancing show. But we had one big problem. To make it work, we would have to bring in legendary artists."
To Cowell's surprise, big-name singers swarmed to Celebrity Duets. The show will pull its weekly musical guests from a large pool that includes Patti LaBelle, Aaron Neville, Dionne Warwick, Gladys Knight, Smokey Robinson, Wynonna and Orlando's Brian McKnight.
The show lined up an offbeat trio of judges: Little Richard, Marie Osmond and producer David Foster. They will eliminate the first singer in the live, two- hour opener at 8 tonight on WOFL-Channel 35.
After that, the judges will advise the public, which starts voting next week. The performance show will air at 9 p.m. Thursdays; the results will be announced at 9 p.m. Fridays.
Orlando's Wayne Brady will play host -- perhaps ringmaster is a better title. Expect arguments between the judges and the contestants, who are nonsinging celebrities.
The eight hopefuls are pro wrestler Chris Jericho, actress Lucy Lawless of Xena: Warrior Princess, Cheech Marin of Judging Amy, gymnast Carly Patterson, Alfonso Ribeiro of The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Jai Rodriguez of Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, Hal Sparks of Queer as Folk and Lea Thompson of Caroline in the City.
"They've been taking vocal lessons," Cowell says. "They've been practicing for weeks. We're putting them with really good coaches."
Celebrity Duets is not going to be anything like the early rounds of American Idol, when deluded, off-key warblers foul the airwaves.
"As a public service, I make you a solid commitment that we will do everything humanly possible to present high-quality singers in the competition, because I think that's where the wow factor is going to come in," says Peter Liguori, president of Fox Entertainment.
Cowell won't say which nonsingers are the best. But he says the contestants are taking the challenge seriously.
"They'll be as prepared as they can possibly be, but that can all fall apart on the night with nerves," Cowell says.
Oh, the nerves. The nonsingers will practice mostly on their own. They will spend just a little time with the professionals. Shortly before the performance, a nonsinger will learn which pro will share the duet. The audience won't know the pairing until the big-time singer comes out after the song has begun.
"I think the point where when you're onstage, and you've started a song, and then you look behind you, and on walks Gladys Knight, I mean that's a scary moment," Cowell says.
Many scares are possible. Unlike Dancing With the Stars, Celebrity Duets will pair the nonsinger with a different pro each week. The critiques from Little Richard and producer Foster could be harsh. They will focus on the nonsinger.
"I am genuinely interested in Little Richard for some reason, and I think it's going to be quite an interesting dynamic between him and David, because David is very serious," Cowell says.
In picking Little Richard, Cowell is displaying his showman's flair.
"With Little Richard, you have that sense of unpredictability," Cowell says. "Most importantly, I based it on who would I like to watch on a show like this. As soon as his name was mentioned, I mean there was absolutely no second thoughts."
Of course, the nonsingers could have a lot of second thoughts if they tank. Cowell remains upbeat.
"I would like to think at the end of this show, somebody is able to launch a successful recording career," Cowell says. "I think they all believe that they could become a successful recording artist at the end."
Second thoughts are less likely among the famed singers. Fox programmer Liguori attributes the big turnout on Celebrity Duets to the success of American Idol. He cites Prince's appearance on the season finale.
"For him to come on American Idol clearly opened the door or reopened the door that television is a good vehicle for music, for artists to promote themselves, for artists who wind up seeing their CD sales rise," Liguori says.
Cowell agrees that Idol helped draw so many big names.
"They don't want to be on a show no one is going to watch," Cowell says. "I think it [Idol] helped them believe . . . that it could be successful."
And if the duets aren't great, Little Richard should keep things interesting.
| Listen up: Fox Unveils "Celebrity Duets" Tonight |
August 29, 2006
By Ann Oldenburg for The Asbury Park Press
"American Idol" judge Simon Cowell launches a new singing competition today that he hopes will be " "Idol' for autumn."
"Celebrity Duets," premiering at 8 tonight on Fox (Channels 5 and 29), pairs recording stars with celebrities not known for their singing.
The host is Wayne Brady. And the judges, in a mix only Cowell could have devised: wild rocker Little Richard, serious music producer David Foster and singer and doll- seller Marie Osmond.
"Anything can happen," says Michael Levitt, executive producer, along with Arthur Smith ("Hell's Kitchen") and Cowell.
On the two-hour premiere, judges will eliminate the first of eight celebs. Then, after each Thursday performance, starting Sept. 7, viewers vote for their favorite celeb. Lowest vote getters are eliminated on Friday starting Sept. 8. The winning celeb gets $100,000 for charity.
Legends and celebs
Cowell offered advice to the contestants in a recent phone news conference: "Shut your eyes, hold your breath and hope for the best. It's hard enough to sing in public when you're used to it, and these people aren't. Now we're teaming them up with the Patti LaBelles and Gladys Knights of the world — that's a nightmare." It's legends and celebs, he says.
Yet Cowell says there's no lack of famous folks willing to humiliate themselves warbling. "There are so many celebrities who wanted to come on this show who couldn't sing a note." Those who made it were auditioned "three or four times," he says. "Everyone genuinely believes they've got a great singing voice."
Cowell says the idea came from last summer's ABC hit "Dancing with the Stars."
"I thought it was a really fun show to see Nick Lachey's brother trying to be a dancer, or the football player. I thought it was a great format." He felt it would be "better" as a singing show.
The legends signed for "Duets": Clint Black, Michael Bolton, Belinda Carlisle, Taylor Dayne, Dennis DeYoung, Peter Frampton, Macy Gray, James Ingram, Wynonna Judd, Chaka Khan, Kenny Loggins, Richard Marx, Brian McKnight, Aaron Neville, Smokey Robinson, Randy Travis, Dionne Warwick, Michelle Williams, Lee Ann Womack, Knight and LaBelle.
The celebs: Wrestler Chris Jericho, "Xena" actress Lucy Lawless, actor Cheech Marin, gymnast Carly Patterson, actor Alfonso Ribeiro, "Queer Eye for the Straight Guy" regular Jai Rodriguez, actor Hal Sparks and actress Lea Thompson.
Cowell says the celebs are serious.
"Deep down they've dreamt of being No. 1 in the charts," he says. "No one was booked for comedy value."
Sunday, August 27, 2006
| Celeb X Factor Scrapped |
August 26, 2006
By Sara Nathan for The Sun
Simon Cowell has axed Celebrity X Factor — because it was “pointless”.
The telly talent judge shook his head as he revealed to TV Biz: “We are never going to do it again.”
Former EastEnders actress Lucy Benjamin won X Factor: Battle of the Stars back in June.
But Simon insisted: “The show was pointless. The ratings were good but what we’re supposed to be looking for is a new artist.”
Speaking at Sony BMG’s HQ in London, he added: “The only validity for me doing these shows is that I’m doing my day job on a TV — which is trying to find artists for the label.
“So when I’m judging celebs, I’m not actually doing my job. I’m just being on a TV show.”
Sharon Osbourne, his co-star on the ITV1 hit, made headlines by sparking a war of words with Rebecca Loos.
And Simon had to tell feisty Mrs Osbourne to curb her tongue. He said: “I didn’t have a go but I pointed out that I was looking out for these people as a mentor. They were my responsibility.
“We knew who was coming on the show and if there’s anything to be said, say it backstage.”
Simon also confessed he only signed up for the new series of X Factor after ITV entertainment bosses agreed to stump up £1million for a revamp.
He admitted: “I wouldn’t have worked on it unless it was going to go up a substantial gear — and that’s what’s going to happen.
“The show has got to be bigger now. We’ve got to make the scale of it bigger, more exciting.”
Most of the £1million has gone on a futuristic-looking chrome set with metal poles arching across the studio — and a bigger stage.
The acid-tongued judge revealed: “There are going to be some big changes on the live shows. The whole show will be re-branded, with new graphics.”
Insiders also reveal there are plans for celebrity guest judges and themed live shows. The new series comes after ITV suffered its worst July ratings EVER.
X Factor kicked off with nine million viewers last Saturday, beating BBC1 talent show How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria? which got 4.8million.
Simon said: “This is the type of show ITV do best. They want it to be better than last year.”
There were 125,000 applications from wannabes — up from 70,000 last year. In the first episode alone, we were treated to poor 16-year-old “shaky” Sean from Manchester and 54-year-old Donna giving her excruciating impression of the Queen of Pop, insisting “I want to be as big as Madonna.” (Big, she definitely was).
Then there was 21-year-old trainee hairdresser Jay who thought she was the new Mariah Carey. Mariah Scarey, more like.
And let’s not forget 86-year-old gran Edna, who went where angels fear to tread — and finally got Simon to apologise for his poisonous remarks to her daughter-in-law. And we still have the delights of the woman who makes monkey noises to 80s hit The Lion Sleeps Tonight to come.
Simon sighed: “It was like a wave of loonies this year — they just never stopped coming . . .
“I must have said on at least ten occasions, ‘This has got to be a joke’ — but it wasn’t. You put them out of your mind and you see them back on TV and think, ‘Christ, I remember them now’.
“It was absolutely non-stop. I think I may have post-traumatic stress disorder.”
Last year’s finalists Shayne Ward, Andy Abrahams, Journey South and Chico have sold FOUR MILLION records between them.
Simon said of winner Shayne: “I’m going to put another £2million in the pot to break him as an international superstar. I want to do the same thing with this year’s winner. It’s all about giving someone a break.”
Viewers love the friction between Simon and fellow judges Sharon and Louis Walsh.
Louis infamously walked off during the last series after Simon called him an idiot — and Sharon chucked a glass of water over him. Simon sniggered: “Louis and Sharon are incredibly competitive. Sharon will do anything to win. I’m never competitive until the later stages.”
And he vowed: “I won’t have any water-throwing this year. I’ve told them absolutely not. It’s a little bit like primary school.”
Next week, Simon flies to the US for American Idol 6. And he is hoping for success at the prestigious US Emmy awards on Sunday night in Los Angeles where the show has EIGHT nominations.
Saturday, August 26, 2006
| Simon Cowell Favourite for X Factor Spoils |
August 25, 2006
By Staff Writers for Read-a-Bet
William Hill have opened their betting on which judge will be successful in this year's edition of the 'X Factor' and make Simon Cowell the 6/4 favourite to be triumphant for the second time.
Sharon Osbourne is quoted as the 13/8 second favourite by Hills with Louis Walsh the 15/8 outsider.
Hills make the X factor winner their 1/2 'certainty' for the Christmas number one, with last years winner Shane Ward offered at 20/1 and series one winner Steve Brookstein is offered at 1000/1.
"Simon Cowell is our favourite but Sharon Osbourne is the only judge who has failed to win the X factor and I would be amazed if she was not successful this time round." said Hills spokesman Rupert Adams.
William Hill X factor Winning Manager: 6/4 Simon Cowell, 13/ 8 Sharon Osbourne, 15/8 Louis Walsh.
| Kylie Told She Lacks X Appeal |
August 26, 2006
By Staff Writers for The Daily Record
She has famous name but Brummie wannabe Kylie doesn't have the same X Factor as her Aussie namesake.
The 17-year-old arrived at her auditions for The X Factor with her own entourage and family.
On tonight's ITV1 show, she claims: "I am Kylie but you can call me K Star. K is for Kylie and Star, because I am a star.
"This isn't a dream, it's a reality. I will be having a number one single and a massive-selling album".
But her dreams are shattered by acid-tongued Simon Cowell.
He tells her: "The truth -- you'll never make a career in music. It's hard when you're good but it is impossible when you are just OK".
But Kylie and her entourage don't give up that easily, with the whole family confronting Simon.
However, after getting an ear-bashing from a hopeful's mum-in-law last week, Mr Nasty lashes out.
He says: "You are giving your daughter false hope. You have led her down the wrong path. She will never be a pop star".
| Eager Diva |
Augsut 26, 2006
By Cameron Robertson for The Mirror
A girl of 14 revealed last night how she wowed the judges as she conned her way into the next round of X Factor.
Classically-trained Paris Graham-Jones stunned Simon Cowell, Sharon Osbourne and Louis Walsh with her operatic voice, with all three giving her the thumbs-up.
But after they heaped praise on her, she confessed: "Erm, I can't go through -- I'm only 14."
She touched Mr Nasty Cowell enough for him to praise her, saying: "Well, you did very well. We would have put you through to the next round."
Paris said she was "gutted" at being barred, but the Royal Northern College of Music student last night vowed she would try again at 16.
Paris said: "I feel quite pleased with all three judges saying yes. I thought it went ok, I didn't think I could have sang any better. If I was 16, I would have gone through."
Paris said she wasn't nervous singing in front of Simon, Sharon or Louis, but was terrified over what they'd say when she came clean...
The impressed judges instantly put her through to the boot camp stage -- but she admits fibbing to show makers about being 16, saying: "I just wanted Simon to hear my voice..."
Sharon exclaimed "Paris..!" and Louis gasped: "You're only 14?..."
Simon adds: "You're very cute. All right, thanks sweetheart..."
Paris, who also plays the violin and piano, added: "Sharon is lovely and so is Louis. Simon was ok -- he's not really that bad. But Sharon was more sympathetic..."
Viewers of ITV2's Xtra Factor will tonight see Simon brand Trevor, 18, "a bitter 17-year-old" because he has "picked up bad singing habits". But Louis and Sharon overrule him, insisting: "He needs another chance."
Friday, August 25, 2006
| Cowell to Voice American Idol Game |
August 25, 2006
By Staff Writers for RTE (Radio Telefís Éireann)
'American Idol' judge Simon Cowell is to provide original voice work and his likeness for the upcoming video game 'Karaoke Revolution Presents: American Idol'.
The Hollywood Reporter says that Cowell's fellow judge, Randy Jackson, will also provide original voice work and his likeness for the game from Japanese gaming giant Konami Digital Entertainment.
Cowell and Jackson will record thousands of lines for the PlayStation 2 game and discussions are ongoing with the third 'American Idol' judge, Paula Abdul, about joining the cast.
'Karaoke Revolution Presents: American Idol' is due in shops in December.
| Simon Fuller on Pop Idol |
August 25, 2006
By Sara Nathan for The Sun
...Fuller refused to rule out a return to UK screens of Pop Idol, which made him mega millions.
Last year he reached an out-of-court settlement after claiming Simon Cowell copied X Factor from Pop Idol.
But he said last night: “I wouldn't say Pop Idol is dead.
“If Simon Cowell and I decided to switch things around in a way that was appropriate and relevant, then who knows?”
| Louis Jokes about Sharon & Simon |
August 25, 2006
By Staff Writers for Contact Music
"Sharon's getting new hair for the show and Simon's getting new teeth."
-- Pop mogul Louis Walsh jokes of his The X-Factor co-judges Sharon Osbourne and Simon Cowell's preparation for the new series of the hit UK talent show.
Thursday, August 24, 2006
| Why I Love My Job: Simon Cowell |
February 24, 2003
The Oprah Winfrey Show
HOST: Oprah Winfrey
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Dianne Atkinson Hudson
Unidentified Man #1: Any "American Idol" fans here? Anybody feel that they have what it takes to be on "American"--Oh, OK.
TIMMY: (Singing) 'And the home of the brave.'
Unidentified Man #1: You want to sing from back here? What are you singing for us today, Tom?
Unidentified Woman #1: Hey, Simon, they have our cameraman singing. Everyone loves him.
What is she doing?
Mr. TOMMY SKINNER: That's it.
OPRAH WINFREY: I'm upstairs in the dressing room and I see you getting ready to make a really big fool out of yourself. I want to try to save you, my brother.
He already did it?
Oh, my God. I need to stop this.
Mr. SIMON COWELL ("American Idol"): That was funny.
WINFREY: Isn't this a little painful?
Mr. Cowell: We love it. We like pain.
WINFREY: OK. We like pain.
Mr. Cowell: Yes. Yeah.
Unidentified Woman #1: So are you ready, ready for Simon?
WINFREY: I'm ready for Simon. It's going to be the most fun I've ever had.
Unidentified Woman #1: It's going to be a blast. The most fun you've ever had.
WINFREY: OK.
Cute.
So you would have to be living under a rock not to know our first guest. He's the man everybody loves to hate. Or so they say. He makes women weep, grown men tremble and viewers cringe. And, yet, America keeps begging for more. In a word, he's Simon!
(Excerpts from "American Idol")
WINFREY: Whoa. Ouch. That--he doesn't hold back. That's why I love him. Please welcome the brutally honest king of "American Idol," Simon Cowell.
Brutally honest. Have a seat. OK.
Mr. Cowell: I like this audience.
WINFREY: They're fired up. So you don't--you--you really don't mind. I've seen you say in other interviews, you don't mind if people don't like what you're saying.
Mr. Cowell: I couldn't care less.
WINFREY: You couldn't care less. You really couldn't?
Mr. Cowell: No, I always--I th--I think on the show it's very important, and--and I try and encourage this as much as possible, and I say to them beforehand, 'Look, it's--it's give and take. You know, if--if you give the criticism, you've got to be able to take it back.' And--and I think it makes for--for a more interesting show. Otherwise it becomes like bullying. So I said, 'If you hate me or if you hate what I say, it--we'll not edit out. You get your chance, as well.' And, you know, it's--it's--as I said, it's give and take.
WINFREY: And you like that?
Mr. Cowell: Yeah.
WINFREY: And because you understand--I think, the reason that that show is such a hit is...
Mr. Cowell: Yeah.
WINFREY: ...you know, not because everybody was looking for the American idol, it's to see you tell people the truth. It's the same--isn't that why you watch? You want to see Simon tell people the truth.
Mr. Cowell: I--I think so. I--I think, you know, what--what I try and do on the show is--is I try and do what I would be saying at home. And--and we've all watched these talent shows where people have come on...
WINFREY: Yes, yeah, yeah.
Mr. Cowell: ...I won't mention "Star Search" and so--Oops. And someone comes on and you just go, 'Tell them what you think.' 'You're useless.' 'Say it.' And they don't. 'Oh, no, no, you're really good.'
WINFREY: Because you--do you think that saves people time? It saves a lot of energy and time for them in the future?
Mr. Cowell: Well, I think--yes, I agree, I--I think I'm like this sort of public service really to this--no, I do, because, you know, we--we get these kids coming in and--and they're 18, 19 years old, and they--and they've never worked. And--and I ask them beforehand, you know, 'This is something that you're taking seriously?' 'Yes, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah.' And then this thing comes out of their mouth which they think is singing when it's not. And I say, 'Well, you know, you have got to be good to be paid for this. And--and the only way you're going to get paid for this is to shut up. You can't--you can't make a living out of this. So--so try another career direction.'
And what was interesting on the show last week, we had a big guy...
WINFREY: Yeah.
Mr. Cowell: ...and he--and his name was Ruben. And I really liked this guy.
WINFREY: Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Ruben's good. Yeah.
Mr. Cowell: And--and--and what I was criticized last year for--I kept--I kept saying to a lot of large people, 'You don't look like the American idol or--to me, you're not the American idol.' And they say, 'Oh, it's just my weight.' And I said, 'Well, no, it's not your weight. It's just that you're boring.' If you are interesting and they've got a personality, it doesn't matter what you looked like.
WINFREY: Right. Right.
Mr. Cowell: And that--and--and it wasn't conveyed very well last year. But Ruben is terrific because he's a big guy--he has a fantastic voice. But just as importantly, and the--and the reaction from the audience is an example of this, he's got a personality you fall in love with.
WINFREY: Yeah. Yeah.
Mr. Cowell: And that's what I think is--is what the "American Idol" is partly all about.
WINFREY: Because what is the package that you're looking for, the combination that makes a person have it? Because the voice isn't everything.
Mr. Cowell: No, it's not.
WINFREY: No.
Mr. Cowell: It's--I mean, I can only put it down to instinct. You know, I mean, sometimes, you know, the American audience and myself agr--we're on the same page, and many times we're not. But it's just trying to find--most importantly, just one star from this competition, somebody who wouldn't under normal circumstances perhaps even get into a record company...
WINFREY: That's right.
Mr. Cowell: ...but becomes a star. Because t--for this competition to succeed long term, we have to make the winner of this competition a real bona fide recording artist.
WINFREY: Bona fide. OK. Now what's interesting about it, don't you think that the American public now, and you've done this before in Britain--but the American public now understands more of what it takes, that it's harder to be a star than it looks like.
Mr. Cowell: Hundred percent right. I'm glad you said that. And I've--and I've seen this with--with the way they're voting this time around. It's almost like the American audience are taking their role very seriously, which is...
WINFREY: Yeah.
Mr. Cowell: ...that 'I'm not just going to vote for somebody I hate or fancy or whatever,' it's, 'No, let's try and vote for the right st--for the right artist who will become a star.' And--and interesting you picked up on that because I feel it this time around.
WINFREY: Yeah. I do, too.
Mr. Cowell: Yeah.
WINFREY: Well, Simon has become a superstar in America. You may not know that he's been a starmaker for over two decades. Look at this.
(Excerpts from "American Idol")
WINFREY: Simon's razor-sharp tongue and in-your-face attitude has left aspiring singers crushed.
Unidentified Woman #2: I want my mommy.
WINFREY: But before his cold-hearted comments became commonplace on television, the British-born bully was already a force to contend with in the music industry. His illustrious career began over 25 years ago.
Mr. Cowell: I left school when I was 16. Went to college for a year, flunked out. I basically had no qualifications.
WINFREY: His passion for pop music led him to the record business.
Mr. Cowell: The only way in was actually at the very, very bottom, which was the mailroom, which I did for two years.
WINFREY: But Simon didn't just deliver mail. He would constantly pester the owner of the company for a better job.
Mr. Cowell: Every day I used to walk into his office and say, 'Come on, I want a job.' And eventually I persuaded him. And then I met a manager about a year later who persuaded me to leave the big company, start a record label, which I did for seven years.
WINFREY: But Simon was in way over his head and needed help.
Mr. Cowell: I tracked down a record producer called Pete Waterman. And I would go to him with ideas and he would just say to my face, 'This is rubbish. You have no credibility. You don't know what you're doing.' And it's a huge part of the reason why I am like I am today, because, for me, it was the best thing I ever had and it made my try harder. I didn't take it as an insult. I didn't start crying. It was just simply, I want to win over this guy's approval because he knows more than I do.
WINFREY: Eventually, Simon did more than just win his mentor's approval. After becoming a consultant for BMG Records in 1989, Simon won the approval of music lovers all over Europe, launching the careers of some of the biggest stars in British recording history.
Mr. Cowell: I love music. This is one of the reasons I love my job.
WINFREY: But he didn't stop there. With one of his colleagues in the UK, Simon created "Pop Idol," a televised talent competition, where the contestants are judged by music industry icons, one of which was Simon. His venomous critiques and know-it-all approach reduced wanna-be Whitneys to tears and made Simon a star.
Mr. Cowell: It's patronizing to--to--to go on a TV show and someone sings completely out of tune and then say to the audience at home, 'Well, he was good, wasn't he?' And they're sitting there, 'No, he's not; he's useless.' Is there a nicer way of saying things? Maybe. Would it have the same effect? No. And let me tell you, 99 percent of the time I am right.
WINFREY: Ninety-nine percent of the time. Cool.
Next, some very brave people in our studio audience want to show--I don't know why--want to show Simon their stuff, when we come back. But first what Simon says about his co-judges, Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul. Take a look.
Mr. Cowell: What I love about Randy is I have never, ever, ever seen this guy down. He is somebody who genuinely lights up a room. He has the best energy I have ever come across in my life.
I don't wish her any harm. I don't wish her bad luck. Will we be having dinner together in six months' time? Never. Maybe it's just the fact that I'm on planet Earth and she's on planet Venus.
(Announcements)
(Excerpts from "American Idol")
WINFREY: I don't know. I didn't like it. I...
Mr. Cowell: Well, to be fair, I--I do wind them up a bit beforehand, to say, you know, 'Come on, if I say something to you, give me something back, rather than, "You're terrible," and they say, "Thank you."' Maybe I went a bit too far.
WINFREY: OK. One of the things we were asking during this last commercial break, and--I know, you asked a question. I h--was asking the same question. Are all the people from the very beginning, those are real people? Those are real people who really believe they can sing? Or do you throw a couple of ringers in there just for our entertainment? All those people believe they can sing?
Mr. Cowell: 99.9999 percent. Honestly. They are rigorously, rigorously checked. And I know--and we spoke about this before...
WINFREY: Yeah.
Mr. Cowell: ...you look in someone's eyes, you know what you're dealing with. And--and, you know, I look, and I ask, and I always ask the same question, 'Are you the best--best undiscovered talent in America?' 'Yes, I am.' 'The best singer in America?' 'Yes, sir, I am.' And then you end up with Keith from Atlanta who attempted the Madonna song. And, you know...
WINFREY: Yeah.
Mr. Cowell: ...I'm the one who's in the wrong afterwards. 'He doesn't know how talented I am. He's just biased. He doesn't like people with long hair.' And it's, like, 'No, you can't sing.'
WINFREY: Do you--do--do they choose their own songs?
Mr. Cowell: Yes.
WINFREY: They choose their own songs?
Mr. Cowell: Abs--I'm sorry. I'm laughing because I'm trying to imagine him. 'I've got "American Idol." I'll do "Like A Virgin." Because that'll work.'
WINFREY: I know, that's just like it. I'm just thinking this--somebody say, 'No, you must sing this song, whether you can find the key or not.'
Well, before the show, we asked the studio audience, our studio audience, if anyone wanted to show their stuff to Simon. And, strangely enough--strangely enough, there were some people, I guess you could call them brave, who said they wanted to do that. So check this out.
(Footage of people singing)
WINFREY: Oh, oh, oh.
Mr. Cowell: Oh.
WINFREY: OK. Tanya, Beth, Sharon and Timmy, stand up. Is that--Tanya, Beth.
TIMMY: ...(Unintelligible).
Mr. Cowell: Let's have a look at you.
WINFREY: OK. Let's have a look at you. OK.
Mr. Cowell: OK. The lady in red, what was your name?
TANYA: Tanya. I'm, like, 'Who else is in red?'
Mr. Cowell: Yeah. That actually wasn't bad.
TANYA: Thanks.
Mr. Cowell: How old are you?
TANYA: I'm 23.
Mr. Cowell: OK. You look a bit older. I mean, seriously. What I would say to you if you were coming on the show is you look older than your age. But actually you've got quite a good voice.
TANYA: Thank you.
Mr. Cowell: The lady on your--What is it?--left?
TANYA: Left?
BETH: Left.
WINFREY: OK.
Mr. Cowell: You looked like you were murdering the microphone.
BETH: I was very nervous.
Mr. Cowell: Yes. And I could see that. You actually were quite good. I love that song.
SHARON: Oh, thank you.
WINFREY: Uh-oh.
Mr. Cowell: Now the lady on your left.
WINFREY: OK. Yes.
Mr. Cowell: I would...
WINFREY: Let me ask you something. You were seriously--were you seriously--you were seriously singing the national anthem? You were being serious about it, right?
TIMMY: Yeah, but I don't--I don't want to be a star but I--I thought that was...
Mr. Cowell: Well, that's good news.
WINFREY: You--you didn't want to be a star but you thought that--that was--you was...
TIMMY: I was good. I didn't crack or anything.
WINFREY: OK.
Mr. Cowell: Well, no...
WINFREY: OK.
Mr. Cowell: I--I have to explain something. There is a medical condition here, which is--no, no, I'm being serious--which is, you hear something we're not hearing. Because if you heard what we heard, you wouldn't sing again in public. And that's not being rude. It was terrible. It really was.
WINFREY: Well, it wasn't--it wasn't good. It wasn't good.
Mr. Cowell: That's what I'm saying. It was terrible!
WINFREY: Yeah, it--it--it wasn't good. So I--I wasn't quite sure whether or not you were--you were--you were--you were really...
Mr. Cowell: Normal?
WINFREY: No--no, I didn't know whether you were like trying to...
TIMMY: I was just trying to carry a tune.
Mr. Cowell: OK, well, it fell off.
WINFREY: OK.
TIMMY: I wasn't--I'm not trying to--I don't want to be a star but I thought...
WINFREY: You weren't trying to be a star, you were just trying to carry the tune.
TIMMY: ...you know, this--and I thought I did.
WINFREY: And you thought you did.
Mr. Cowell: You didn't.
WINFREY: OK. There you go.
Mr. Cowell: But thank you.
WINFREY: OK.
Mr. Cowell: You are coming on our show as a guest judge.
WINFREY: No. No. No, it's...
Mr. Cowell: No, no, you're worse than me. Yeah, because your look says a lot more. It's kind of like 'You're singing.'
WINFREY: Yeah. No, I didn't know. I didn't know. Well, maybe y'all were like trying to add something or not add something.
BETH: No. No.
WINFREY: No? You really were? Oh...
BETH: I was trying to sing.
WINFREY: OK. I understand. I understand.
Mr. Cowell: OK. You don't.
WINFREY: I understand. Keyword. You were trying to sing. OK. That's very nice. Thank you for doing it. I thank you for doing it.
Mr. Cowell: Quite right.
WINFREY: Have a seat. No, when Paula was here last week, I was telling her, 'I could not do this job. Because I don't like hurting people's feelings. I don't want them crying out in the'--you know. I don't.
Mr. Cowell: A little bit.
WINFREY: Just a--no, and so, I--I would not be good at this. But I thought you all--some of y'all were joking around up there. Anyway, they were not our only performers before the show. Our own cameraman--I was upstairs listening to people. Tommy Skinner decided he needed to take the stage, too, before I could save him. See, I was upstairs in my dressing room...
Mr. Cowell: I saw you fly out.
WINFREY: ...listening to people, and I didn't know they were doing this for you. And then when I saw Tommy, I thought, 'I've got to stop him.'
Mr. Cowell: It was like a stampede. It was like a stampede out of that dressing room.
WINFREY: 'I've got to stop him.' Take--yeah, let's take a look.
Unidentified Man #1: He's singing something that's not a song.
Mr. SKINNER: Yeah, it's a rap.
Unidentified Man #1: You're going to rap? All-righty. OK, then. This is MC Tom, right?
Mr. SKINNER: I need y'all to clap for me.
(Rapping) Oreo cookies, the one of a kind, chocolate and vanilla, I eat them all the time. You dip them in milk, you eat them in the bed, they're really scrumptious, go straight to your head. Oreo.
That's it.
WINFREY: No. I--lis--listen, sorry I'm only half-dressed. I'm upstairs in the dressing room and I see you getting ready to make a really big fool out of yourself. So I've been watching this thing upstairs and so--I have to live with you. I want to try to save you, my brother. Save you, my brother. Don't do it, Tommy!
But he already did it? Oh, my God. My gosh.
Mr. Cowell: You're worse than me.
WINFREY: No, this is painful.
Mr. Cowell: You're worse than me.
WINFREY: How are you?
Mr. Cowell: How are you, sweetheart?
WINFREY: How are you doing?
Mr. Cowell: Nice to meet you. That was funny.
WINFREY: Good to meet you, too. No.
Mr. Cowell: That was funny. He was cool.
WINFREY: Yeah, yeah.
That was fun. That was fun. Let me just say, Tommy, that wasn't as bad as I thought it was going to be. I had heard the national anthem so I didn't know what could happen to you.
Mr. SKINNER: I actually c--I actually can...
WINFREY: I didn't know else could happen to you. So I was trying to save you and I know you like gospel, so I thought maybe you might try to attempt some Donnie McClurkin or...
Mr. SKINNER: I actually can sing, though.
WINFREY: You actually can sing?
Mr. SKINNER: I--I think.
WINFREY: I'm not feeling it.
Mr. Cowell: Can I say something?
WINFREY: Yeah. What?
Mr. Cowell: I think you're a great cameraman.
WINFREY: So do I. You've been a great cameraman, Tommy, all these years. Thank you so much for coming on.
Mr. Cowell: Thank you for having me. I really enjoyed it.
WINFREY: I enjoyed it.
Mr. Cowell: They're cool.
WINFREY: OK.
Jay Leno has been the king of late night for years but there's new competition on the air coming to you all the way from his living room. We'll meet the king of living room late night who loves his job when we come back.
I know you love your job. Yes.
Mr. Cowell: Love it.
WINFREY: Love it.
Mr. Cowell: Love it.
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
| Ozzy Tops 'Figure of Fun' Poll (Simon Comes in Sixth) |
August 23, 2006
By Staff Writers for U.TV
Rocker Ozzy Osbourne has been voted Britain's favourite figure of fun.
The former lack Sabbath frontman took top spot over Tory MP Boris Johnson.
The Reader`s Digest survey asked more than 2,000 people to choose the nation`s silliest celebrity.
His comic appearance as star of reality show The Osbournes "appears to have transformed him from a scary heavy metaller into everyone`s favourite clown", the magazine said.
Johnson came second thanks to antics including rugby tackling an opponent during a charity football match.
He was not the only politician to make the list: Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott was seventh, while Ann Widdecombe and George Galloway also got a mention.
Third in the list was eccentric former boxing champ Chris Eubank, followed by Rolf Harris and Bill Oddie.
X Factor judge Simon Cowell was sixth, ahead of Big Brother star Jade Goody, I`m A Celebrity contestant Carol Thatcher and Bargain Hunt presenter David Dickinson.
Other celebrities in the top 20 included Jordan, Richard Madeley, the Duke of Edinburgh and Newsnight`s Jeremy Paxman.
Top 20
1 Ozzy Osbourne
2 Boris Johnson
3 Chris Eubank
4 Rolf Harris
5 Bill Oddie
6 Simon Cowell
7 John Prescott
8 Jade Goody
9 Carol Thatcher
10 David Dickinson
11 Christine and Neil Hamilton
12 The Duke of Edinburgh
13 Ann Widdecombe
14 Jordan
15 Sir Alan Sugar
16 Jeremy Paxman
17 George Galloway
18 John McCririck
19 Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen
20 Richard Madeley
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
| 'Duets': What Simon Says |
August 22, 2006
By Marisa Guthrie for The NY Daily News
"American Idol" maestro Simon Cowell doesn't have much advice for the contestants on his latest reality show, Fox's "Celebrity Duets."
On "Idol," said Cowell during a conference call with reporters yesterday, "we normally say to [the contestants], 'Be unique. Be original.' On 'Celebrity Duets,' it's 'Shut your eyes. Hold your breath. And hope for the best.'"
The show -- which kicks off next Tuesday at 8 p.m. on Fox -- pairs professional singers -- including Macy Gray, Lee Ann Womack, Gladys Knight, Smokey Robinson and Aaron Neville -- with celebrities not generally known for their singing chops, including Lucy Lawless, Leah Thompson and Cheech Marin.
"The fact that we're teaming them up with some of the best singers in the world, Patti LaBelle and Smokey Robinson, that's a nightmare," he continued. "So there's not much advice I could give them."
He does expect the celebrity contestants to have a lot more to say to the judges critiquing them than the shrinking violets on "American Idol."
"My experience of working with celebrities," he said, "is they'll be a lot more lippy."
Music producer David Foster and Little Richard are among the judges, with a third judge to be named in the coming days. (According to Cowell, No. 3 will be a female and will be a recording artist.)
Cowell said he expects Foster, who has worked with many of the professional singers who will be appearing on the show, to be the linchpin, much like he is on "Idol."
Meanwhile, Little Richard was chosen for his off-the-wall persona. "Somebody said, 'Little Richard.' And I said, 'Book him,'" said Cowell. "He's interesting. I've seen so many of these shows where the panelists are so dull."
Cowell has somewhat of a Midas touch when it comes to formatted reality. "American Inventor" was a modest performer and "America's Got Talent" did so well for NBC, the network ordered a second season.
But Cowell's contract with Fox precludes him from appearing on shows on competing networks. But he may have an on-camera role on "Celebrity Duets," he said.
He also acknowledged "Duets'" obvious debt to ABC's "Dancing With the Stars."
"I really like 'Dancing With the Stars,'" he said. "I thought it was a really fun show. To see Nick Lachey's brother [Drew] ... try to be a dancer, it was a great format. I always thought it would be a better singing show than a dancing show."
Cowell said celebrities were clamoring to be on "Duets."
"There were so many celebrities who wanted to come on this show who genuinely could not sing a note," he said without naming names.
The winner of "Celebrity Duets" gets a cash prize to donate to their favorite charity. But they also may get something even better. Cowell said he expects the winner to walk away with a recording contract and a new career path.
"No matter what they tell you," he said, "my hunch is that's what they believe could happen at the end of this."
| Rat'll Do Nicely for Mr. Nasty |
August 20, 2006
By Staff Writers for The Mirror
TV's Mr Nasty Simon Cowell has revealed his favourite animal is ... a rat.
The acid-tongued X Factor judge was one of a dozen celebrities to pose for an animal charity calender.
And rocker Rod Stewart's fiance Penny Lancaster, took the pictures for the People's Dispensary for Sick Animals.
Simon was paired with a black Cairn Terrier.
"I love Cairn Terriers," he said. "They are very naughtydogs with lots of characters. They have a sense of humour and always get into trouble."
But he added: "If I were to own a pet, I would own a rat.
"I think rats are just mice with bad PR -- they are real little characters.
"I genuinely like rats and snakes."
Ewwwwwwwwwwwwwww!
| You Can Play the Evil Queen, Simon |
August 19, 2006
By Neil Docking for Bucks Free Press
A contestant on this Saturday's new series of X-Factor has branded the controversy in the hit ITV show as fake.
Warren Kelly from Park Road South in Newton has featured in adverts for the programme all week.
The 20-year-old incurred the wrath of music mogul Simon Cowell when performing a song and dance routine during an audition in June.
And he had some strong words of his own for the notorious judge.
He said: "It was open auditions and you had to get through six rounds to get through, I sang a bit and kicked my legs up for them.
"Sharon really liked me and Louis was okay but Simon didn't like me at all.
"He told me if it had have been Pete Waterman judging I would have gone through - he doesn't like dancers.
"Simon stormed out and then when he came back in the row I have with him is so funny.
"It's a fix -- they told one girl before she went back on to throw water over them."
The panto star added: "He was slagging me off so I turned round to him and said when we play Snow White this Christmas you can play the Wicked Queen!' "Then he got a security guard to throw me out - you'll have to watch it on Saturday!"
Warren, who runs classes at Scorpio Entertainment's school of dance at St Peter's Primary School, on Birley Street, was inspired to go on the show by his late nan, Nora Skeech.
He said: "Two days after I auditioned she died -- I was really close to her and it was her who was always telling me go for it' and you should be on that show'.
"It was mad, you couldn't describe the experience and I got to meet a lot of stars, including Take That.
"In Earlestown everybody keeps beeping their horns at me and shouting X-Factor!' "It is a lot of hard work and there are a lot of dreams being broken, but I have received a lot of work from it.
"I'm turning on the lights in St Helens, working with S Club Juniors and the Britain's Next Top Model star Abbey Clancey."
Monday, August 21, 2006
| Singing Nuns Xterminated |
August 21, 2006
By Sara Nathan for The Sun
The Beeb is set to get a further hammering after X Factor chiefs invited Elton John and Beyonce to be guest judges.
Saturday’s ITV1 show was watched by 8.4MILLION — while 4.8million saw BBC1’s singing nun contest How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria?
Now X Factor producers hope to keep up the pressure by recruiting top stars to join judges Simon Cowell, Louis Walsh and Sharon Osbourne for the live studio stages in the autumn.
An insider said: “The judges’ comments are what make the show, so throwing in a few different voices will really shake things up.
“Elton is a big friend of Sharon’s and is a huge fan of the show.
“He also has a reputation for making cutting remarks. So if he agrees, he’ll be a great addition.”
Elton appeared on the second series of Pop Idol to help coach contestants. Winner Michelle McManus said at the time: “Doing it in front of Elton was 100 times more nerve-racking than singing for Simon.”
X Factor chiefs are also hopeful of getting 24-year-old Beyonce on the panel for some extra glamour. The source said: “Beyonce is gorgeous and hugely popular with wannabe stars because they respect how hard she’s worked to get where she is.
“We’re told she knows the show, so we’re hopeful she will say yes.”
Series three of X Factor has already had American Idol’s Paula Abdul as a guest.
But she caused mayhem for producers after turning up SIX HOURS late to London auditions. And she annoyed judge Louis Walsh, who said: “The woman is a nutcase and she’s got a dreadful boob job.”
Simon has already hinted that this year’s show will feature more celebrity appearances.
He said: “There are some changes to the live show this time. There will be a lot of guests.”
Madonna and Noel Gallagher are also rumoured to have been asked.
| Cowell Struggles to Contain His Opinions |
August 21, 2006
By Staff Writers for Contact Music
American Idol judge Simon Cowell is struggling to keep his opinions to
himself on his new US show America's Got Talent.
The British music mogul has a clause in his Idol contract which bans him from taking on his Mr Nasty persona on any other US TV show. Cowell, who produces America's Got Talent, has to stay quietly behind the scenes and silently watch British journalist Piers Morgan, R+B singer Brandy Norwood and former Baywatch star David Hasselhoff tell wannabe stars what they think of their 'talents'.
Cowell tells the New York Post, "It's been very tempting. There have been times when I've watched the show and thought to myself, 'God I wish I was judging this.' But I've got to keep my mouth shut."
Sunday, August 20, 2006
| TPT Names 'X Factor' Star as Perfect Man |
August 19, 2006
By Daniel Kilkelly for Digital Spy
Tara Palmer Tomkinson has named Simon Cowell as her perfect man.
The It girl, who has previously dated stars including James Blunt and Robbie Williams, praised the X Factor judge's old-fashioned values.
"He's my perfect man. It's ironic that he's known as Mr Nasty because he's a real gentleman in an old school sense, that's rare these days," she told the Daily Star. "Simon's sexy and debonair."
Tara tried to attract Simon's attention at the X Factor launch in London earlier this week.
An onlooker revealed: "When she arrived she made a beeline to give Simon hugs and kisses before posing for pictures. There definitely seemed to be a lot of chemistry. She flirted with Simon but it was no good."
| A-paula-ing Behaviour |
August 20, 2006
By Rachel Richardson for News of the World and Staff Writers for The People
X Factor star Louis Walsh has lashed out at a guest judge, telling her: "You're just a-Paula-ing!"
He even branded potty Paula Abdul, left, "unprofessional" for her wacky behaviour during filming.
Louis raged: "Paula was unprofessional and annoying. I thought I'd like her but she took a dislike to me and everyone else. I was glad when she left."
Singer Paula, 44, a judge on American Idol, was brought in by Simon Cowell to spice up X Factor.
He guessed her diva-like behaviour would rile Louis, who fell out with fellow judge Sharon Osborne last year.
She caused chaos when she spent a week helping Louis, Simon Cowell and Sharon Osbourne find a singer from a string of no-hopers.
They included Tim, 40, who did a soul-destroying version of All Night Long, and Donna, 54, who murdered Like A Prayer.
Fuming Louis, 54, ranted: "Paula would turn up to auditions late when we'd been working hard all day.
Paula arrived at auditions EIGHT HOURS late, then wasted time chatting to contestants and asking them to sing over and over again.
"Sometimes she didn't turn up at all. She was very unprofessional." And show host Kate Thornton told us: "One day Paula blurted out to me, 'I hate Louis'.
"She's a big star in America and I guess she expected everyone here to treat her the same way."
An insider added: "You could cut the atmosphere with a knife. Simon knew there'd be a battle."
She also tried to put through no-hopers and really showed her diva streak when she checked into London's posh Mandarin Oriental hotel under the name Donna Prima. An insider said: "After a few days Louis couldn't bring himself to talk to her."
Simon, who worked with Paula on American Idol, said: "They didn't get on, but the whole idea was to ruffle a few feathers and she certainly did that."
He added: "After spending so much time with her in America, her madness just washes over me."
Viewers saw Paula when the ITV1 show kicked off last night and she'll be back in future episodes—when Louis' contempt is plain to see.
Simon, 46, has vowed to stir things up even more with other surprise guests.
He laughed: "We need to keep things fresh."
Saturday, August 19, 2006
| Saucy Simon's a Card |
August 19, 2006
By Pete Samson for The Mirror
Simon Cowell is used to being mocked by the public -- now fellow X Factor judge Louis Walsh is getting in on the act, too.
He's all set to poke fun at playboy Simon over his alleged affair with socialite Jasmine Lennard.
Louis says he and third judge Sharon Osbourne "laughed non-stop for two days" over last month's Mirror exclusive about Simon's dalliance with the 21-year-old.
And he wants to use our picture of Simon poking his head around the door as Jasmine left his west London home as the X Factor Christmas card.
"I was straight on the phone to Sharon after I saw the story in the Mirror," adds Louis. "I loved the picture of Simon's head poking round the door. It was just fantastic.
"I want to put a Santa's hat on his head and use it as the X Factor Christmas card. I'll add some snow coming down as well.
"At least Jasmine's fur coat will look more suitable in that weather. I think we all know what she was wearing under that!" Show bosses banned questions about our scoop at their launch party on Wednesday.
When Simon was asked about it, he squirmed and said: "Sorry, I can't hear you."
Louis confirms: "Yes, we were banned from talking about it but he will get some stick on the show."
Simon, 46, was caught enjoying the tryst with wannabe model Jasmine, who arrived at his house in a fur coat despite the 81C heat.
In an attempt to calm long-term girlfriend Terri Seymour, he claimed Jasmine was just one of several guests. But no one else arrived or left between 9pm and 3am.
Louis's digs at his fellow judge may prove a highlight of tonight's opening X Factor show, as will Simon getting a rollicking from an 86-year-old gran and a lovable teenager who is so nervous he breaks down in tears.
The show will be going head-to-head with BBC1's Graham Norton- fronted talent show How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria? But that doesn't worry Cowell.
"The Beeb has put something against us this year," he says. "If you're over 90 you'll watch Graham. If you're younger, you'll watch us."
| Judge Dread Is Back |
August 19, 2006
By Jon Horsley for The Sun
Britain's biggest talent show kicks off again – with a record number of wannabes risking a tongue lashing from terrifying Simon Cowell.
As the third series begins, over 100,000 hopefuls try and prove they have that mythical X factor, which is 30,000 more than last year.
So there will be plenty of talent on display – and also a huge number of people who can’t sing at all.
But, astonishingly, there’s one person who doesn’t enjoy weeding out the terrific from the tone deaf at all – Simon himself. “I absolutely hate
the auditions,” says Simon, 46.
“It’s like having to sit in the dentist’s chair for six months – and they’ve run out of anaesthetic!”
Simon thought it would be fun when he first had to go on the road.
“But after two hours you’ve really had enough. It is just something that you have to go through,” he says.
“It’s the same story here and in America. Every year, you are looking for the best and you know that 90 to 95 per cent of people who turn up are going to be terrible.
“But every one of them believes that they are the next big thing and they are going to hate you when you tell them they are useless.”
Kate Thornton again hosts the series, which kicks off with the best (and worst) from the London and Manchester auditions.
There are again three categories – 16 to 24, 25 and over, and the groups.
And with body-building vicars and belly-dancing grannies promised in the opening stages, nobody is daring to predict the outcome.
But Simon is clear on the kind of acts he doesn’t want to see win.
“Put it this way, I am not looking for what we were looking for last year,” he reveals.
“There has been a significant shift in what people want. So I am not looking for a traditional talent-show competitor this year. I am looking for someone different with a bit of originality.”
Simon’s fellow judges Louis Walsh and Sharon Osbourne return.
None of them have any idea yet who they’ll be mentoring, but the competition between them promises to be as fierce as ever.
“We all start off as best friends,” explains Simon. “But then you get through to the live shows, and I don’t know what takes over but you desperately want to win. I really can’t explain it.
“Sharon is the worst, funnily enough. She gets more competitive than any of us. But that’s what I love about her!”
| Nasty Simon Lashes Nuns |
August 19, 2006
By Sara Nathan for The Sun
Telly's two bitchiest stars go head to head in a prime-time clash of the talent shows tonight.
X Factor’s Simon Cowell landed the first blow — branding Graham Norton’s Sound of Music search for a star programme as fit only for OLDIES.
Asked if he was worried about the ratings clash, Mr Nasty Simon sneered: “If you’re over 90 you’ll watch Graham Norton.
“If you’re under 90 you’ll want to switch over channels and watch us on ITV1. It’s going to be a bit of a competition, but I’m feeling confident.”
Industry experts reckon the tussle between the two shows could be a close thing.
How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria? has pulled in seven million viewers on BBC1 but X Factor could bag up to ten million for ITV1.
X Factor chiefs reckon this year’s show will be the most entertaining yet.
Simon said: “There are some great singers this year. It’s the best talent pool we’ve ever had.” And he said some of this year’s wannabes had the potential to go on to international success.
Producers have also unearthed some of the WORST performances ever seen on the show, including a woman who murders classic song The Lion Sleeps Tonight.
And judge Simon promised surprises to liven up the studio rounds of the show, including A-list music stars as guest judges.
He said: “There are some changes. There will be a lot of guests.”
Graham was unavailable for comment yesterday but Maria creater Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, who is also a judge, said: “I’m new to this game, but I think our audience will stay with us. We’re not just a singing contest.”
Friday, August 18, 2006
| Simon Cowell Gets Gran-bagged! |
August 18, 2006
By Nicola Methven for The Mirror
Edna, 86, tells Simon: 'You are ignorant, nasty, ugly.. and don't even have your own teeth..'
Stunned X Factor judge Simon Cowell was still smarting yesterday after getting the rollicking of his life - from an 86-year-old great gran.
The smarmy music mogul looked terrified as grey-haired Edna Moore tore into him: "You're ignorant." She added: He's not good-looking and hasn't even got his own teeth."
And to add to his humiliation battling Edna now admits she feels SORRY for him after making him squirm.
The showdown happened when Edna accompanied daughter-in-law Lorraine to the Manchester auditions to watch her perform for Simon and fellow judges Louis Walsh and Sharon Osbourne.
But the great gran's blood began to boil after Simon began to snigger at Lorraine's efforts, branding her "lifeless" and mocking her "lack of personality".
Storming back into the audition room, she told him: "You laughed!" When he protested that he always laughs, she spluttered: "No you don't. You do not." With her voice rising she added: "Listen Simon. You want to alter your ways." Looking crest-fallen, the multi-millionaire pop mogul muttered: "This is really embarrassing." But Edna hadn't finished. "You think you're better than anybody. I think you were very ignorant. Yes -you were ignorant, Simon."
Finally Simon realised he had no choice but to apologise. "Sorry," he said as he scurried from the room.
Edna was still fuming as she told producers afterwards: "Why these girls scream over him, I don't know.
"He's not good-looking -- he hasn't even got his own teeth."
Louis was delighted to see his arch rival getting a roasting. He beamed: "You were put in your place by an 86-year-old granny today, Simon."
And the show's Mr Nasty had to agree that he had indeed been well and truly silenced.
He admitted: "I've never been so humiliated in my life."
Pinching his thumb and finger together he added: "She made me feel that big. She absolutely wiped the floor with me.
"When she let rip I turned into a three-year-old because I didn't feel I could argue with a woman who is 86. I have to admit -- it was fantastic."
Sharon, as usual summed up the situation perfectly, roaring: "She nailed his arse."
Edna said last night: "I was disgusted with Simon. He was laughing and I really didn't like the way he put his head on his arm.
"I'm not prone to tantrums, but it needed to be said. I think most people would agree with me.
"In the end I felt sorry for him. To tell you the truth, he looked a bit hurt when I said those awful things."
Now she's calmed down, Edna confesses that she likes Simon really.
Speaking from her home in Oldham she added: "Although he can be a bad lad, It think underneath he's got a good heart. He's a Jekyll and Hyde."
But Edna will be disappointed to learn that her outburst failed to change Simon's ways.
During the rest of the launch show - to be screened on ITV1 tomorrow night -- his putdowns come as thick and fast as ever.
One girl is branded Mariah Scary, while another is told she has the personality of "three pencils". And he cruelly tells a third contestant: "You were old-fashioned 40 years ago."
| Simon Cowell Helms Dick Clark Emmy Tribute |
August 17, 2006
By Staff Writers for Access Hollywood
Charlie Sheen, Martin Sheen, Candice Bergen, Ray Liotta, Simon Cowell, Jeffrey Tambor, John Lithgow and Bob Newhart have been confirmed as presenters for the 58th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards. This will be the first time that the Sheens will present together at the Emmy Awards...
And Simon Cowell will be at the helm of the telecast's special tribute to Dick Clark!
The show, hosted by Conan O'Brien, will broadcast live from Los Angeles' historic Shrine Auditorium, Sunday, August 27 on NBC...
Best known as the most brutally honest of the three judges on "American Idol," Simon Cowell achieved celebrity status on the UK version of "American Idol," "Pop Idol."
His UK-based production company, SYCO, produces the BAFTA Award-winning "The X Factor," which is also the No. 1 entertainment show in the UK. Cowell created and served as executive producer on "American Inventor," "America's Got Talent" and FOX's "Celebrity Duets."
This year, Cowell was ranked No. 29 on Forbes Magazine's "Celebrity 100 Power List." Additionally, he is an executive with SonyBMG Records and has helped to shape the modern pop music industry. Cowell's most recent discovery is the pop-opera quartet Il Divo, whose first two albums have sold over 11 million copies around the world.
Thursday, August 17, 2006
| Simon Spills Celebrity Duets' Secrets |
August 17, 2006
By Matt Webb Mitovich for TV Guide
As reported earlier this week, Lucy Lawless, Cheech Marin, WWE champ Chris Jericho, Olympian Carly Patterson, Fresh Prince's Alfonso Ribeiro, Queer Eye's Jai Rodriguez, Hal Sparks and Back to the Future's Lea Thompson will put their pipes to the test on Celebrity Duets (premiering Aug. 29 on Fox), where they will be paired with the likes of Clint Black, Peter Frampton, Macy Gray, Wynonna Judd, Patti LaBelle, Aaron Neville, Smokey Robinson and Dionne Warwick. To spill additional dish on Duets — including the exclusive on a just-added judge — as well as preview changes in the works for American Idol and America's Got Talent, executive producer Simon Cowell gave TVGuide.com a call.
TVGuide.com: You have to be over the moon about the talent you've gotten together for this show.
Simon Cowell: Yes, we are. I've got to be honest with you, I truthfully did not think we were ever going to make the show, and I'll tell you why: We basically said to the producers, "If you can find us 10 legendary names for this show, we're going to make it, and if you don't, we can't." And I gave them a 10 percent chance of proceeding.
TVGuide.com: Because this doesn't work if the pros are chumps.
Cowell: Absolutely. We had to have literally the best singers in the world, we felt, and I think they've pretty much done that.
TVGuide.com: Will each week's performance night be taped, or broadcast live?
Cowell: That's a very good question. I think it's going to be shot as all live.
TVGuide.com: And what's the judging setup? Who have we got?
Cowell: Well, I can tell you exclusively that we have just signed Little Richard. I'm really thrilled, we're very happy. We've also got [music producer] David Foster, and we have one more to fill. I think I know who it is, but it's not confirmed yet.
TVGuide.com: I'm guessing it will be a female?
Cowell: Looks like it, yeah, and she will be well known. David was the first choice and then somebody said to me recently, "What about Little Richard? You'll never get him, but give it a go." Well, we've confirmed him. It's great news, and it all adds to the craziness of the show.
TVGuide.com: Will the duets have to tackle different musical styles each week?
Cowell: Eventually, as the show narrows down, it will become themed. On the first show they're going to sing two songs each, so they will have to choose two different disciplines on the first night — like, an up-tempo song and a ballad, or a rock song and a country song.
TVGuide.com: Will the pairings always be male-female?
Cowell: Not necessarily, no.
TVGuide.com: Is there anything else that has not yet been reported? Any scoop?
Cowell: Yes, we just confirmed Gladys Knight as one of the singers.
TVGuide.com: Wow....
Cowell: Yeah. The great thing about the show is that every week more and more people are phoning up saying they want to be a part of the show.
TVGuide.com: Aren't the celebrities going to get nervous now, seeing the heavyweights they'll be partnering with?
Cowell: Oh God, yeah. This would be hard enough if we were asking them to sing on their own. But add in the fact that you're singing with Smokey Robinson, Gladys Night, Patti Labelle.... It's a nightmare.
TVGuide.com: Readers of my news blog have noted that many of the celebs, like Lucy Lawless, Jai Rodriguez and Alfonso Ribeiro, have experience singing on stage....
Cowell: It would have been very easy, to be honest with you, to just put people up there for the sake of a "car crash," but that's funny for about a second. Like [Dancing with the Stars], which I'm a big fan of, you actually want to find people who are good. Who knows what could come out of this at the end, but they're taking it really seriously. And because they are, we felt it was right that everyone who came on the show had to be auditioned. They have got to sing.
TVGuide.com: Any early handicapping from you?
Cowell: Oh no, it's too early to tell at the moment.
TVGuide.com: Switching topics, America's Got Talent was a big summer hit. Still, might there be changes for Season 2?
Cowell: Yeah, a lot of changes. Whenever we make a show, you look at it and you keep the areas that are working and you fix what you think could be better. It's much, much easier making a second season than it is a first season. But it will be bigger, better, funnier, the new [season] for sure.
TVGuide.com: I know "the Hoff" [David Hasselhoff] has been doing some grumbling. [In the Aug. 7 TV Guide, he said he's been tempted to "take my [buzzer] and go home."] Any chance he might not return as a judge?
Cowell: No, we dealt with that. I called him when I read the article and said, "Is there something you want to tell me?" [Hasselhoff said] "Simon, it was my sense of humor, I was being funny.... I hope you didn't take it the wrong way" — and I think he genuinely felt it. I think he was trying to be English in his humor, and it didn't come off. [Laughs] He sent me a note saying he loves the show and wants to be a part of it, and we love having him on the show.
TVGuide.com: And what's your take on the songwriting competition-within-the-competition planned for the upcoming season of Idol?
Cowell: Look, it's always worth trying new things. My feeling is that we're going to get a lot of songs written with the words "moment," "proud" and "blessed" in them. [Laughs] I think that will be the recurring theme. If we find a hit, fantastic. If we don't, we've given it a go.
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
| Cowell: 'I'm Not Vain' |
August 15, 2006
By WENN for UK Yahoo
Simon Cowell has hit out at claims he is vain, insisting he doesn't care about his looks at all.
The Pop Idol judge was mocked in the press yesterday after choosing a mirror as the one item he could not live without if stranded on a desert island, on BBC radio programme Desert Island Discs.
But the music mogul says, "I don't think I'm vain. Because I actually don't care. If someone thinks you look OK, great. If they don't so what."
To demonstrate his point, Cowell describes the ridicule he has faced over his penchant for trousers with high waistbands.
He adds, "When I go out now I see people trying not to look at my trousers. It's the first thing they do. No one looks at my face anymore. I see all these people and their eyes are going down towards my belt. So funny."
| UKRD Sign Simon Cowell’s Brother |
August 15, 2006
By Staff Writers for Radio Today
Brother of Pop Idol judge extraordinaire, Simon Cowell, is to be a panel judge for UKRD’s exclusive “Source Summer Book Club Competition”.
Tony Cowell, who co-authored Simon Cowell’s autobiography in 2003, joins Bernard Cribbens, Ronan Keating, comedian Tom O’Connor, and former Magpie presenter Susan Stranks, together with Pop Idol finalists Journey South, in an eclectic line up of judges who will decide which child can write the best book review in no more than 100 words.
UKRD Group Programme Director, Phil Angell, told RadioToday.co.uk: “we have been running twice daily news updates for the 8-14 year old age range across all our radio stations for some months now and the idea of the book club came from giving our younger listeners something a little different to do in the summer holidays.”
“We’re thrilled that Tony Cowell and Journey South have come on board,” said Angell. “Both Tony and I have been discussing a number of exciting opportunities in the months to come, and this is a great way of beginning what we hope will be a long term relationship. Tony also likes eating at Mr Chows in Knightsbridge which for me is a bit of a head start”.
Interesting. I've heard that Mr. Chows in Knightsbridge is also one of Simon's favorite restaurants. ;-)
| Unsung Celebs Sing 'Duets' |
August 16, 2006
By Marisa Guthrie for NY Daily News
Singing in the shower is one thing.
Singing with the likes of Aaron Neville or Patti LaBelle is another.
But Lucy Lawless, Cheech Marin, Lea Thompson and wrestler Chris Jericho will give it a try, all for your entertainment pleasure.
They have been chosen to perform with the pros in Fox's "Celebrity Duets," a musical version of "Dancing With the Stars," produced by "American Idol's" Simon Cowell.
Other contestants are gymnast Carly Patterson (a 2004 Olympic gold medalist), Alfonso Ribeiro (who played Will Smith's uptight cousin in "The Fresh Prince of Bel- Air"), "Queer Eye" style guru Jai Rodriguez and Hal Sparks ("Queer as Folk").
Each week they'll perform a duet with a rotating roster of singing stars including LaBelle and Neville as well as Clint Black, Michael Bolton, Belinda Carlisle, Taylor Dayne, Peter Frampton, Macy Gray, James Ingram, Wynonna Judd, Chaka Khan, Kenny Loggins, Richard Marx, Brian McKnight, Smokey Robinson, Randy Travis, Dionne Warwick and Lee Ann Womack.
Viewers will vote to send one contestant packing each week. The winning celebrity will get $100,000 - to give to his or her favorite charity, of course.
Producer David Foster, who is looking for a new singing star with NBC's online series StarTomorrow (www.startomorrow.com), is one of the "Duets" judges, with two others still to be named. Comedian Wayne Brady will host.
"Duets" bows Aug. 29 at 8 p.m. with a two-hour installment before settling into its regular time slot, Thursday night at 9, on Sept. 7. A weekly results show begins Sept. 8 at 9 p.m.
All of the celebrities participating in "Duets" can carry a tune, promised Peter Liguori, Fox's head of entertainment, and some of them may surprise you.
"I can't tell you what they're going to do under pressure, but as a public service," he said, "I make you a solid commitment that we will do everything humanly possible to present high-quality singers in the competition because I think that's where the 'wow' factor is going to come in."
Monday, August 14, 2006
| Family Detective: An Investigation into our Hidden Histories This Week: Simon Cowell |
August 12, 2006
By Nick Barratt for The Daily Telegraph
Simon Cowell is the notoriously blunt judge on a range of reality pop shows such as Pop Idol and the X Factor, famous as much for his honest - if harsh - criticism of the acts themselves, as his ability to spot raw talent. His celebrity is now worldwide, with similar shows such as American Idol appearing in the United States, where he is only marginally less known than in his native Britain. Cowell, who is now worth an estimated pounds 80 million, according to some reports, claims to have worked his way up from nothing. We examine the evidence in his family's background.
WHO IS HE RELATED TO?
Simon Cowell was born in 1959, but because of some "inaccurate'' information on the birth certificate, the registration had to be completed a second time in 1981. One reason was that his parents married in 1961, two years after his birth. His father, Eric Philip Cowell, had a previous marriage dissolved, while his mother, a dancer, married under her stage name, Julie Brett, having started life in 1925 as Josie Dalglish. At the time of his marriage, Eric Cowell was listed as a company director. He had previously worked as an incorporated surveyor and estate agent, but he moved into the music business and went on to become an executive at EMI music publishing.
After a turbulent school career -- transferring from boarding schools because of his persistently bad behaviour -- Simon became a postroom clerk in 1979 in the company where his father worked, gaining valuable experience and quickly progressing through the ranks. Then, after an unsuccessful attempt to found his own music company in the 1980s, followed by a brief return to EMI, he eventually launched Fanfare records and the rest of his career as a successful impresario is well documented.
Cowell senior was born in 1918 to Joseph Cowell and Esther Malinsky. The couple married in 1915, while Joseph was serving as a private with the Royal Middlesex regiment. The wedding took place at the West Ham Synagogue, indicating the origins of the bride's family. Esther was born in Poland in 1886, although on the marriage certificate she stated that her age in 1915 was only 26 -- an attempt, perhaps, to mask the true age gap between the couple, as Joseph was only 23 at the time. Her parents, Gabriel and Anne, had journeyed to England in late 1890 or early 1891 with their family of four children, and started out - like so many other Eastern European immigrants -- as cap makers, settling in Spitalfields in east London.
Joseph Cowell was born in 1891 and, before the war, found work as a commercial clerk. He also came from an East End background, as his parents, Joseph Allerton Cowell and Nancy Levy, lived in Mile End. They married young in 1890 -- Joseph was barely 16 and his wife was only a year older -- yet, despite their relative youth, they were able to afford quite a high standard of living, even employing domestic servants to help look after their children. Joseph was a rope-maker, like his father, Joseph Cowell senior. Rope-making was an important profession in London throughout the Victorian period, and many businesses such as the Cowells' started up to take advantage of the burgeoning shipping industry.
Joseph senior clearly ran a successful operation from his base in Stepney, employing at least 10 staff in the 1860s and providing opportunities for family members such as his niece, Matilda Grimmett, who was employed to spin twine. Clearly a family man, Joseph also provided shelter for his ageing father-in- law, Samuel Sheard. His wife, Caroline, died in 1872, but within a year the 49-year-old Joseph took a second wife, Kate Allerton. The couple's first child was Joseph Allerton Cowell, and at least four further children followed.
The business continued to flourish, and the profession of making money from old rope was to pass down from generation to generation.
| Thank Lou, Mr. Cowell |
August 13, 2006
By Stephen Maguire for The People
Louis Walsh reckons that Simon Cowell has changed his life.
Louis reckons his career as a reality show judge has hugely boosted his confidence.
So thank you Simon.
Thank you for giving Louis the confidence to believe in himself and release Westlife and the Carter Twins on to the rest of the world.
Now do us all a favour and p*** off.
Sunday, August 13, 2006
| Simon Cowell's Desert Island Luxury? A Mirror, of Course |
August 12, 2006
By James Tapper for The Daily Mail
For years Simon Cowell has insisted he is not vain. But now The X-Factor's Mr Nasty has admitted a strong streak of narcissism -- he cannot bear to be without a mirror.
Interviewed on Desert Island Discs, the multi-millionaire pop impresario chose a mirror as his one luxury to take with him, explaining: "It's because I'd miss me..."
Cowell also revealed that despite being an arbiter of modern music through his TV talent shows, he rates only one contemporary artist highly enough to take their music to the island.
But the moment that most surprised host Sue Lawley came at the end of the Radio 4 programme, when he announced his desert island luxury.
Cowell, 47, said: "Easy, a mirror. It's true, because I'd miss me." An astonished Miss Lawley asked: "Are you going to let us broadcast that?'
"I don't care,' he said, laughing. "I'm on my own, no one around, I might as well have a mirror."
Cowell, who has been with former model and TV presenter Terri Seymour for three years, was ridiculed for his look when he first appeared on TV as a Pop Idol judge. His high-waisted trousers, tight black T-shirts and bouffant hair saw him savaged by fashion critics.
Responding to the jibes, Cowell said at the time: "People have said I'm vain. I don't think I am, actually. I took a lot of stick over what I wore on Pop Idol and I thought it was hysterical. That's why I don't think I'm vain. Because I actually don't care.
"If someone thinks you look OK, great. If they don't, so what?' However, his fellow X-Factor judge Louis Walsh is not convinced.
He attacked Cowell's well-groomed look last year, saying: "I think Simon's very vain. He wears platform shoes, has spray tans, wears make-up and dyes his hair -- all in an attempt to look younger."
His on-screen adversary also revealed that Cowell 'likes to do press-ups [push-ups] before he goes on set'.
| Cowell, the King of Pap Pop, Reveals His Desert Island Tunes |
August 13, 2006
By Jonathan Owen for The Independent
He is responsible for such crimes against musical taste as "So Macho" by Sinitta, "Everybody Get Up" by 5ive and the warblings of Robson and Jerome.
But the music on Simon Cowell's own iPod could not be more different.
On BBC Radio 4's Desert Island Discs this morning, Cowell reveals his love for classic pop songs from the 1950s and 1960s. He describes Herb Alpert's "This Guy's in Love With You" as "the sexiest song ever". French singer Charles Aznavour's "She" is described as "one of the most beautiful songs of all time".
The acts from which he made part of his £50m fortune are conspicuous by their absence. There is just one modern song: Daniel Bedingfield's "If You're Not the One" which he says is "one of the most perfect pop songs of all time".
His favourite is Bobby Darin's version of "Mack the Knife" which he argues is "the best song ever made".
But Cowell slams his contemporaries. "The shark pool is not the media, the shark pool is some of the people who work in this business who are absolutely vile, vile people," he says.
He speaks frankly about shows such as X-Factor, saying: "It is like the outpatients of an insane asylum sometimes. I mean you just think, is this a joke?" He also admits that he was a horrible child who set his home on fire when he was four.
COWELL'S CHOICE
Bobby Darin "Mack the Knife"
Herb Alpert "This Guy's in Love With You"
Charles Aznavour "She"
Righteous Brothers "Unchained Melody"
Wayne Newton "Danke Schoen"
Daniel Bedingfield "If You're Not the One"
Sammy Davis Jr "Mr Bojangles"
Frank Sinatra "Summer Wind"
Saturday, August 12, 2006
| Cowell Urges Pop Wannabes to Be Nice to Animals |
August 11, 2006
By WENN for UK Yahoo
Tough-talking X-Factor judge Simon Cowell has given pop wannabes auditioning for his hit TV talent contest a big tip -- he likes singers who are kind to animals.
Despite being dubbed Mr Nasty for his scathing criticisms on the show, the music mogul admits he has a soft side when it comes to pets -- and he'll campaign against a contestant if he finds they're mean to animals.
In an upcoming interview with People For The Ethical Treatment of Animals' (PETA) Internet magazine HelpingAnimals.com, Cowell says, "Would I be more sympathetic (to contestants) if they were animal lovers?. Yes... of course.
"Maybe some people are surprised that I like animals, but there's a bit of a difference between telling someone who's a useless singer, 'You're a useless singer,' (and) drowning a puppy.
"I once had an incident with a guy who auditioned who actually admitted he likes killing animals. (He) didn't go through."
| X Factor's Maria Lawson on Simon |
August 12, 2006
By Miriam Zendle for Digital Spy
So, tell us. What have you been up to since you finished the X Factor?
Since X Factor I've been incredibly busy. It's been quite a whirlwind. I signed to Sony BMG, which was very exciting, very fabulous. I did the X Factor tour, and it was nice being back with all the guys -- we weren't in competition any more! I could go out and perform and meet all the people who supported the show.
Simon Cowell once said he fancied signing you. Is that who you're with?
No, I'm signed to Phonogenic. They look after Natasha Bedingfield and Ross Copperman and myself. They were more suited to the sort of music I want to do. I'm more soulful...more like a classic soul artist. Simon's absolutely great -- but he's pop! I've got a lot of freedom [with Phonogenic]. I've written nearly half the songs on the album, and there are no covers on the album. That's kind of how I wished my album to be, way before this. I thought, if I ever have the opportunity to record an album, [I want it to be] songs from my heart and from my soul.
Shayne's first single was a cover. Do you prefer to have your artistic freedom?
I must say the opportunity that Shayne had within the show [was great] -- well, he's a superstar now, he's one of the biggest acts in the country! Simon's fantastic at what he does, and Shayne is a pop singer, so it's a good marriage and it's well suited to what he does.
Thursday, August 10, 2006
| Watch Simon Cowell's New PETA PSA, and Win an American Idol CD |
August 10, 2006
By Staff Writers for Helping Animals
Known for his tart tongue and blunt honesty, Simon Cowell reigns as the king of mean on the hit reality show American Idol. But there's something that gets the brassy British judge even hotter under the collar than wannabe pop stars singing off-key—dogs left in hot cars! That's why compassionate Cowell, who first worked with PETA when he posed for an anti-fur ad last year, is teaming up with PETA again to remind members of the public not to park their pups in sweltering cars.
"Far be it from me to be critical, but I find it really appalling that this year, thousands of dogs will die of heatstroke inside parked cars," says Cowell in a TV public service announcement (PSA) that will air all summer long.
On a 78°F day, the temperature inside a shaded car is 90°F, while the inside of a car parked in the sun can reach 160°F in minutes. When left in hot cars, animals can quickly succumb to heatstroke. Check out more tips for keeping canines cool during the "dog days" of summer.
Win an American Idol Season 5 Encores CD Signed by Simon Cowell
Haven't had a chance to grab the new American Idol Season 5 Encores CD featuring Taylor Hicks, Katharine McPhee, and other stars from this past season? Or do you know an American Idol fan who would love a copy of Encores? Now is your chance to win a copy of the CD signed by the one and only Simon Cowell. Simply fill out the form here, and you will automatically be entered to win!
Click here to see behind-the-scenes video footage from the shoot and an exclusive interview with Simon Cowell: here or here
| Cowell Failed to Launch Hasselhoff's Single |
August 10, 2006
By Staff Writers for Contact Music
British music mogul Simon Cowell failed to secure David Hasselhoff a hit single in the 1990s. The American Idol host, who worked for BMG Records, signed the former Baywatch star in the hope of producing his single If Only I Could Say Goodbye, which only reached number 35 in the UK singles chart in 1993.
Hasselhoff, who has recently reunited with Cowell on US TV show America's got Talent, says, "We tried to break England and the record fell like an egg from a tall chicken... it just completely plopped."
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
| Simon Turns Sweet for Pet Project |
August 8, 2006
By Staff Writers for Extra TV
"Extra" is uncovering a side of Simon Cowell that's sure to shock "American Idol" fans everywhere; it seems Mr. Nasty has a heart after all!
"Extra's" Terri Seymour made the startling discovery while on location in London with stunning model and famed photographer Penny Lancaster.
Sweet Simon and his buddy, a little dog named Buster, posed for Penny as she shot a celebrity calendar for the UK's leading veterinary charity PDSA.
"I like dogs, you know he's a funny little thing," Simon said of Buster.
But Simon quickly snapped back into Mr. Mean when it came to his "American Idol" mates.
Terri asked Simon, "If you had to compare Paula, Randy and Ryan to a dog, which one would you say they emulate?"
"I think Ryan would be a poodle," Simon stated. "Randy would be a bull dog. And Paula would be something uncontrollable. I don't think that dog exists, funny enough."
And funny enough, Penny revealed that Simon was very easy to work with. "He's obviously used to being in front of the camera, so he's got that smile," Penny said.
Penny was all smiles herself after a reported 3-week bout of the baby blues soon after giving birth to her son, Alistair, with fiancé Rod Stewart.
As for Simon, with "American Idol" landing eight Emmy nominations, he's busy planning his speech. "This year we'll win no question of a doubt," Simon said confidently.
| Cowell Plans New Talent Search Show |
August 8, 2006
By Daniel Kilkelly for Digital Spy
Simon Cowell is making plans for another reality talent search, according to a report.
The X Factor judge wants five ordinary teenage girls to be responsible for putting together a new boyband in a new series called MyBand.
"It's all hush-hush at present but Simon and his X Factor team are about to embark on a nationwide talent hunt for their boyband contenders," a source told the Daily Star. "They want to put together an all-male group that can be as big as the likes of Blue or Take That.
"But this show will set out to keep it real. They will hire five teenage girls who love pop music and put them on the judging panel. And these lasses will have the ultimate say on who will be in and who will be out of their band. It will make sensational and controversial TV."
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
| He's Not Sitting Idle |
August 7, 2006
By Greg Braxton for The L.A. Times
This is not about Simon Cowell, but about Simon Fuller. I thought you'd find it interesting anyway.
"American Idol" is big, but Simon Fuller's plans are bigger.
The Mogul Who Swallowed Pop Culture is perched in his office high above bustling Sunset Boulevard, scheming. His groundbreaking project is the behemoth that has come to rule not only television, but also much of the entertainment landscape.
But if you thought Simon Fuller, the British creator of "American Idol," would be sitting back by now celebrating his success, think again.
"I'm hungry," he says, and he's not talking about his next meal.
Next item on his agenda: taking the unscripted talent show to, yes, even higher heights, this time with a songwriting competition that will be incorporated into the show and produce a song that will be sung by the next "American Idol."
After that, he plans to revolutionize the entertainment arena further through his production company, 19 Entertainment, and other partnerships. He wants to start using unique strategies that, in his view, will change the way talent is developed and exposed.
Even by the lofty standards of the unassuming, soft-spoken Fuller, 46, who first came to prominence as the marketing and creative force behind the Spice Girls, it has been a heady year for him and his production company.
Fox's "American Idol," already a cultural phenomenon, has seen its domino effect begin to be felt in theater ("American Idol" alumni are now regularly appearing on Broadway), summer concerts (the 2006 "American Idols Live" tour is the most successful edition in the show's history) and even politics (the "Idols" were invited last week to the White House to meet President Bush). The series finale scored a record 36.3 million viewers, and the show received eight Emmy nominations, the most for any unscripted series. Former "Idols" such as Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood have been transformed into bona-fide hit-makers. And Lifetime will soon air a movie based on "Idol" winner and single mom Fantasia Barrino.
Auditions for the sixth season start Tuesday — this year, there's one at the Rose Bowl — and predictions are for yet another massive crowd of wannabes.
Then there's "So You Think You Can Dance," which Fuller co-created with 19 executive Nigel Lythgoe. It is the top-rated summer show among the coveted 18-to-49 demographic, and Fox renewed the series for a third season weeks before the season finale, which airs Aug. 16. Tickets for a national tour of the top dancers from the show go on sale Saturday.
Nothing has dulled his infectious optimism — not the plethora of "Idol" knockoffs (many of them, like ABC's "The One," almost instant failures), not the good-natured competition with friend and "American Idol" judge Simon Cowell's summer hit, "America's Got Talent," not even the failure by Clarkson to include Fuller in her Grammy thank-yous.
Creative offshoots
Fuller is now looking toward the future, his days consumed by an arsenal of projects including TV, films and music. He is no longer knocking on studio and network doors — those executives are now knocking on his door. Among his plans is a fashion channel. He has project deals with HBO and NBC. And, in partnership with CKX Investors, he has embarked on new creative endeavors.
"We want to define a new approach to entertainment," Fuller said last month, sounding more like a neophyte bursting with ideas than a multimillionaire who counts singer Annie Lennox and soccer icon David Beckham among his clients and is on Bono's call list.
He says he wants to develop blossoming artists who might meet obstacles financially, stylistically or otherwise in trying to break through mainstream standards. Just as "Idol" does with novice singers, the goal is to empower all kinds of performers and "push the boundaries."
"What drives me is moving forward. That is what my brain is focused on," he said. "What really excites me is fulfilling my vision. I now have the resources to do everything I want to do."
But first things first. He's ecstatic over a new "American Idol" twist that not only will add an intriguing element to the series competition, but also help solve a problem that has plagued the competition since its 2002 debut.
In previous years, professional producers and songwriters have been commissioned to write an original song for each of the two finalists. But uncertainty over who those finalists would be, as well as their respective singing styles, has meant less-than-perfect matches.
"It's a thankless task," Fuller said.
But Fuller has devised a way to jump over that hurdle this season by having producers institute a songwriting contest that will run parallel to the singing competition. Anyone can compete to write a tune that will be sung by the two finalists, broadening the choices for possible finale songs and, by the way, bringing in a whole new competition for fans to follow. Some of the top songs may also be performed in a Fox special by former "Idols" and finalists.
The strategy fits in with Fuller's knack of taking deceptively simple ideas and turning them into valuable properties. "It's the simplicity that makes it powerful," he said.
As he talked, Fuller displayed none of the weariness that might be expected from someone who has just endured a punishing weekend jaunt. He had arrived in New York after a flight from London and gone straight to an "Idols Live" concert. The following day he flew to Boston to watch last year's "Idol" champ, Underwood, perform in concert with Kenny Chesney. He traveled the next day to Los Angeles for the taping of "So You Think You Can Dance."
The talk of TV titans
During his travels, TV critics from around the country had their annual gathering in Pasadena to discuss the new fall TV season, and talk of "American Idol" popped up regularly as network and studio heads acknowledged its undeniable effect on prime time. Controversies that would have put a cloud over most TV shows (alleged feuds, rumors surrounding judge Paula Abdul, legal skirmishes between Fuller and Cowell) only fueled the "American Idol" fire.
Fuller admitted that even he is blown away by the show's momentum: "It's all the things you hope — but dare not wish — for," he said.
He also is less than pleased with the "Idol" clones. "This year it's just become a joke," he said, referring to ABC's "The One" and similar shows. "It started being flattering. Now it's annoying." He adds with a wry smile: "No one comes close to us."
He perked up even more when explaining what sets "American Idol" apart from its imitators: "It's a combination of several different elements. But it all really comes down to the voting. When the viewer votes, it matters. Someone who is just ordinary one day can become the next superstar. Just look at what Kelly Clarkson and Clay Aiken did, what Carrie is doing. It's that empowering of America."
'The tidal wave'
Mike Darnell, executive vice president of alternative programming and specials for Fox, called Fuller "a genius" for coming up with a show that other networks call "the tsunami, the tidal wave. It just can't be stopped."
And Fuller is jubilant over the commercial prowess of Clarkson, the first "Idol" — despite a mini-controversy involving the singer, whose "Breakaway" album is still producing hit singles after selling more than 10 million copies worldwide. When Clarkson won two Grammys in February for female pop vocal performance and pop vocal album, she thanked nearly everyone she had ever come in contact with — with the notable exception of Fuller and "American Idol," sparking suspicion that she was trying to distance herself from the series. She also hired new managers.
But Fuller said he never felt slighted by Clarkson. "That was her huge moment. I didn't even notice that she didn't mention me — other people did. She wants to be recognized for her talents. And her win proved to me that America recognized her as a fantastic talent."
And though Clarkson is no longer managed by Fuller, she is still under contract to 19 Entertainment, which was involved heavily with "Breakaway." He still applauds her for seeking management "that she is happy with."
Besides, Fuller has too many other projects to keep focusing on the "Idol" past.
"There's not an hour of the day when I'm not thinking of things that I want to do," he said. "And everything seems possible now."
| Offering Luxurious Spaces to Mega-rich |
August 08, 2006
By Jenny Davey for The Times of London
The Candy brothers have become synonymous with creating products to please the uber-rich.
Nick, 33, was working in advertising when he and Christian, 32, a former commodity trader, decided to go into business together after spotting a gap in the market for designing luxury play pads for high-rollers. They have since designed properties in cities including Athens, Los Angeles and Moscow and have worked for celebrities such as Kylie Minogue, Simon Cowell, and Gwyneth Paltrow.
They are extending their franchise into luxury jets, yachts, hotels and spas. The brothers have set up Candy & Candy Aviation, working with Bombardier to supply design and jet services for the ultra-wealthy. The new venture aims to transfer the design skills used on luxury apartments to create bespoke luxury aboard private jets for billionaire businessmen and royalty.
One source said: “This will be pretty one-off stuff. They are looking at installing spas that work at 40,000ft.”
The brothers snapped up their own luxury vessel from John Hargreaves at the October boat show in Monaco in 2004, a 147ft (45m) Benetti called Candyscape. It has a dining room table that turns into a routlette wheel and a bathroom that is a copy of a Louis Vuitton trunk. Sir Tom Hunter, Paris Hilton and the Rolling Stones are among those to have hired the £12.5 million boat.
The Candys’ latest ideas include setting up a chain of retail outlets in cities such as New York, London, Tokyo and Hong Kong to sell the home furnishings and gadgets available in their yachts, aircraft and apartments.
They are also considering lending their name to luxury hotel groups and spas. A new brand, Studio Candy, is also under development, selling smaller, cheaper apartments, boats and jet pods.
The brothers live in Monaco, but Nick is looking for a London pied-à-terre after selling his flat in Knightsbridge, with sweeping views of the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Brompton Oratory. Brigitta Spinocchia, Nick’s girlfriend, is a design director at Candy & Candy.
| Cowell Finds More Stars for Celebrity Duets Show |
August 8, 2006
By Staff Writers for Contact Music
Music mogul Simon Cowell has enlisted the talents of country star Lee Ann Womack, Cyndi Lauper, Taylor Dane and Belinda Carlisle to head up his new Celebrity Duets reality show.
The chart stars will team up with non-singing celebrities for TV performances in America. Judges will include top composer David Foster.
Monday, August 07, 2006
| Sacred Cows: 'American Idol' Should Be Voted off TV |
August 6, 2006
By Ryan E. Smith for The Toledo Blade
Dear Simon Cowell: I want my mother back.
Like millions of Americans, my mom has somehow been brainwashed by the Fox juggernaut, American Idol.
She watches it every week. When dreamy-eyed Constantine Maroulis was on the show in Season 4, she voted every week as many times as she could, hitting redial until my dad made her stop.
That's what I don't get. I mean, this is a talent show. Just a talent show.
People never went this gaga over Star Search. And yet, even in its fifth season, American Idol remains a ratings titan.
There's no question that watching people sing can be entertaining, especially those first few episodes where they make fun of the worst singers. But generally I wasn't wowed by competitors, even some winners.
Carrie Underwood is a robot (albeit, one that can sing) and Taylor Hicks is a lounge act. Fun to watch, perhaps, but mostly in the way community theater is interesting. Certainly not what you would expect of a pop culture phenomenon.
I saw Clay Aiken in concert at the Toledo Zoo (for a story), and there were times I felt I was back in high school watching friends sing "Greased Lightning." Except tickets to see Aiken started at $39.50.
And doesn't it get old, watching judges who are often vapid and predictable, whether it's Randy Jackson talking to his "dogs" or Paula Abdul being blindly supportive or Simon finding yet another way to say, "You stink"?
He's mean, I get it.
Can I watch Scrubs now?
Ryan, get a clue. Your mother's watching it because of Simon. :-)
| How Brits in LA Lost Their Cachet and Settled for Trashy Television |
August 07, 2006
By Chris Ayres for The Times of Londond
There was a time when British television was watched in America only by the metropolitan elite.
At dinner parties in Manhattan and Beverly Hills, it showed superior taste to suffer through Lewis’s accent in Inspector Morse, or marvel at the corsets in the latest Jane Austen adaptation.
Even when British shows were adapted to appeal to US sensibilities — with ’Til Death Us Do Part, for example, becoming All in the Family — it was considered good form to prefer the original.
Not any more. This year’s Emmy Awards, to be held on August 27 in Los Angeles, prove that British television executives have become astonishingly good at selling Americans the shamelessly downmarket fare that we once imported from the US.
In the reality competitions category, three of the five nominations are of British origin: American Idol, the creation of Simon Fuller, with Simon Cowell on the panel of judges; Dancing With The Stars, an overhauled version of the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing; and Survivor, the brainchild of British expat Mark Burnett.
In contrast, the highbrow categories are full of American shows popular in Britain, such as The Sopranos, 24 and The West Wing, although there are nods to more traditional British offerings, such as Channel 4’s Elizabeth I and the BBC’s Bleak House, as well as the US version of The Office.
Switch on the television in America and it appears that Britain has hijacked prime time. On NBC, you can watch Cowell’s America’s Got Talent (which has 12 million viewers despite being described as “cheerfully stupid” by Variety magazine), and The Apprentice, which was created by a Briton and won this year by a Londoner, Sean Yazbeck. Viewers were astonished when Mr Yazbeck beat off competition from several Ivy League American contestants to land the coveted job with Donald Trump on a salary of $250,000 (£140,000).
According to Kate Coe, a producer who won a Peabody Award for the series Secret Intelligence, the BBC is now seen simply as a training ground.
Naturally, she works for a Briton, Fenton Bailey, who founded World of Wonder Productions with his partner Randy Barbato. “Americans keep recruiting them because they’re so well trained, and people think the accent’s classy,” she said. “You have to be pretty sure of yourself as an American to not feel put in your place by a really great British accent.”
For those who can get past the immigration desk at Los Angeles International Airport and find employment in the US, the financial rewards can be extraordinary.
Cowell earned $98,630 a day from American Idol (he is now worth $80 million). Taylor Hicks, the winner of this year’s contest, infamously got more votes than President Bush.
Indeed, many believe that Cowell’s arrogance reached its zenith when he offered to organise the next US election, and call it President Idol.
To some Britons it’s all too vulgar. Ricky Gervais said recently that the US networks virtually threw cash at him after The Office collected two Golden Globes. “The money being offered was criminal,” he said. “It’s embarrassing enough being an actor for a living — it’s a worthless job — but when people know you earn a thousand times what a nurse earns, it’s f**king embarrassing.”
But others have happily collected the cheques for their appearances, including the former Daily Mirror Editor Piers Morgan (on America’s Got Talent); the entrepreneur Peter Jones (American Inventor); the dancers-turned-judges Nigel Lythgoe and Len Goodman (So You Think You Can Dance and Dancing With the Stars respectively); the presenter Johnny Vaughan (My Kind of Town); and the actor Ed Sanders (Extreme Makeover: Home Edition).
As for the huge wealth being amassed by expat television executives, Americans generally wish them luck — with perhaps one exception. “I don’t think people begrudge Mark Burnett, because he employs a lot of people, he pays them well and takes care of them,” says Kate Coe. “But Simon Cowell? He seems to be such a prat.”
Sunday, August 06, 2006
| Heat on Simon Cowell |
Sometime between September 4, 2002 and October 8, 2002
By Jane Kelly for Heat Magazine
He’s taken America by storm, upset Paula Abdul and Will Young, and been compared to Mel Gibson. So what does Simon Cowell think of Popstars: The Rivals and new judge Geri Halliwell? heat caught up with him in LA…
TV’s Mr Nasty is Mr Happy today. It’s a sunny Californian afternoon and heat has been invited to Simon Cowell’s place in Beverly Hills, five minutes from famous shopping strip Rodeo Drive. The huge house is dazzlingly white and his silver Mercedes convertible is parked on the semi-circular driveway. Inside, there’s a huge sweeping staircase and an open-plan living room-cum-kitchen; outside, there’s a pool. Looking tanned and healthy in jeans and white T-shirt (untucked, by the way), Simon is looking understandably proud.
He’s got good reason to be grinning. He’s basking in the huge success of American Idol, which topped US TV ratings, with 23 million people watching the finale. Winner Kelly Clarkson’s debut single has just been released on Cowell’s label and it’s set to make him even richer. He’s also become a bona fide heart-throb, compared to Mel Gibson by adoring American fans. Just like over here, Simon became notorious for his harsh verdicts about the American hopefuls, and extra spice was provided by his bitchy rows with fellow judges, 80s pop star Paula Abdul and music producer Randy Jackson.
Today, Simon couldn’t be friendlier. He serves us tea and shortbread biscuits, joking about being a homesick ex–pat. Working his way through a pack of Kool cigarettes and even breaking off at one point to feed the birds in his garden, he’s relaxed enough to talk frankly about his turbulent relationship with Will Young, his fellow American Idol judges, his night at the Playboy Mansion, Popstars: The Rivals and, of course, those trousers…
You certainly seem to be enjoying yourself here.
Absolutely. When I was having second thoughts about coming out here, a friend said “Simon, if you have a hit show in LA, you will have the time of your life." It’s true. It’s been the best summer of my life. We’ve got some great singers signed to our label and occasionally you go to a party with 1,000 girls dressed only in lingerie.
First tell us about American Idol. What was the biggest difference from the British version?
A sense of irony from the contestants. Nobody turned up with a smile as if to say, “Well, I’m not very good, am I?” Every single one of those idiots believes they can sing when they plainly can’t. That’s why I kept falling out with Paula [Abdul] the whole time.
Ah yes, the tiffs. How bad did they get?
You should’ve seen the stuff off camera. The first day, Paula was in the dressing room bawling her eyes out, wailing, “No one told me it was going to be like this. You’re horrible.” It got worse and worse. She was prepared to walk off the show at one point.
What stopped her?
She developed a sense of humour and hired a scriptwriter. Initially it was just to write one-liners to put me down, but then it grew into these ghastly speeches. Instead of saying “Good luck in the future” to someone, it would be “In a world where people travel Coach, you travel First Class.” We were all sitting there thinking “What the f*** are you talking about?”
Are you sticking around for American Idol 2?
Yep. But I think we need a fourth judge to make it a little bit different. I’d like to get a complete babe and have her sit next to me, just to wind Paula up.
Would our Pop Idol finalists have done well over there?
I think Will and Gareth would’ve got into the Top Ten. It’s difficult to say because so much of what happens in a competition this long is based on personality. In Britain and America, the best singers won, but things also happened to make them popular.
Like what?
For Kelly Clarkson, she became the all-American, down-to-earth regular girl. Will Young made his name when he fell out with me on the show and handled it very well. Plus nobody picked up on either Will or Kelly in the early stages. They timed it perfectly.
Are Will and Kelly going to do a duet?
I think it will happen, it makes sense. It would have to be something as good as the George Michael and Aretha Franklin duet I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me). It has to be amazing, otherwise don’t do it.
What’s your relationship with Will like now?
It’s safe to say we’re not the best of friends. I supported Gareth, and I do believe judges are entitled to have favourites. My feeling was that as good as he was, Will didn’t define the title Pop Idol; I thought Gareth did.
At the American Idol end-of-series party, apparently you and Will didn’t even chat.
We said hello and it’s fine. We’re not enemies. We respect each other, but he has a much closer relationship with Simon Fuller. I’m like a child, I want my own way. I’m always saying things I regret.
Like what?
My outburst against Will on Liquid News [Simon caused a stir by saying Will didn’t like him]. I was pissed from the night before. I’d been at the Playboy Mansion and was literally still drunk. I thought, “F***, why did I say that?” I grovelled an apology to Will afterwards but it wasn’t very well accepted.
Has he forgiven you?
If I was him I don’t think I would actually. He must’ve thought, “This is the guy who runs my record label, out in LA, slagging me off. What a complete tosser.” He doesn’t show it, though. He’s more mature than I am, even though he’s 20 years younger.
Our sources tell us you used to arrive late for American Idol recordings. Are you becoming a diva?
I’m actually the opposite – I drive myself. I get there late deliberately because I think it’s important that you don’t come too prepared. Look at Paula’s entourage -- there’s Madame herself, a make-up artist, hairdresser, stylist, two managers and a lawyer, a “comedy writer” and a spiritual adviser.
Talking of stylists, is that the reason why the high-waisted trousers have been strangely absent lately?
I’ve never had a stylist, I wouldn’t hire one in a million years. I just got so fed up with these f***ing trousers and couldn’t go through a second series where every joke is related to my waistband. So I thought, “Right, the T-shirt’s coming out.”
Did Paula ever suggest you went to see her spiritual advisor?
No, and if she did I’d say, “I don’t want to end up like you so it would be a complete waste of time."
Are you jealous you’re not a part of Popstars: The Rivals?
I was asked but we’d just finished Pop Idol and my feeling was that people had had enough of us. And I don’t think I could sit next to Pete Waterman for another six months. [Laughs]
Why do you think he clashes with Geri Halliwell?
They’re both loudmouths and both crave attention.
How do you think you’d get on with Geri?
I think we’d get on. I like her more than the others. She wears her heart on her sleeve.
Do you really think Geri’s qualified to pick the next girl band after all the traumas she’s been through?
Yes, because she was in a successful girl band and that’s what they’re picking.
Do you think she’s talented?
Not particularly. She’s not exactly a female Pavarotti, is she?
Do you get on with all your acts, like Westlife for example?
Yes, but we’ve had our moments. I encourage them to be honest rather than that ghastly, “Let’s all be nice to each other when we really hate each other’s guts.”
Do you ever physically fight with anyone?
I don’t think I’d go that far.
Not even with Randy Jackson that time? [During one heated argument, Randy stood up, towered over Simon and said, “Come on, want to do something about it?”]
I backed down. Wouldn’t you? Look at the size of him! It was real, it wasn’t for the cameras. He lost his mind. Nigel Lythgoe [producer] came over and said, “Leave it, before you get a smack in the mouth.”
What’s it like being a heart-throb over here?
I don’t feel like a heart-throb. Honestly. I’ve been behind the scenes for 25 years and I’ve seen guys walk into my office who nobody would bat an eyelid at. Within three months, girls are screaming at them. You can look like Godzilla but if you’re on TV, you’ll be attractive to girls.
Did you get any offers from contestants?
Unfortunately not. Most of them are so nervous, they won’t even talk to me. They’re a bit young for me too. I prefer them late 20s, early 30s.
Has fame improved your love life?
Yes, 100 per cent, because the ice is already broken. I’ve always hated chatting girls up. Fame means they feel they already know you, so it’s easier.
Your mum has been quoted as saying, “My son needs a wife.” Is she in for a long wait?
You know, every time I meet someone I actually think, “This is the one.” But then I get bored very quickly.
Do you want to get married?
Yeah, if it’s the right person. But I’d rather be single and happy than married and unhappy.
Do you prefer British or American women?
American girls are slightly more approachable and slightly nuttier, but in a funny kind of way I quite like. But when you’ve been brought up on that cynical sense of humour, you need that. Americans don’t get sarcasm.
Have you dated girls here?
Two. One was a bit of a nightmare. I met her at a bar and when I got home that night, she called me and said, “I really enjoyed meeting you but can I say something? I think we’re going to end up getting married.” I said, “But we only met three hours ago.” I just thought maybe she was pissed but when I took her out for dinner, she was going, “Should I move in with you? Should we have children?” I was thinking, “I just want to f*** you.”
Tell us about your time at the Playboy Mansion, then.
It was sensory overload. It really is this wall of lingerie. It was one of those evenings where you think, “F*** everything, I’m just going to have a great night.”
So what happened?
I walked in and straight away met this unbelievably fabulous girl. She was 6ft 2in, dressed in bra and panties. I felt like Dudley Moore but thought, “I’m quite happy to stay with you all night long.” Which I did.
Are you planning on settling in the States?
I’ve got past the stage where I’m emotional about missing London. It’s just a city. If I could do all my work in the States, I’d come here, but the same applies to London. Wherever you can have a success, you should go.
There are rumours Hollywood producers have been trying to cast you in movies…
Two movies, yes. One was a leading role in a big studio production and I thought it was a wind-up, then I realised they were serious. I’m not going to sign up, though. I can’t act.
Not even a cameo role?
I don’t see the point. It’s not an isolated bit of embarrassment, it’s public humiliation. It gave me nightmares, so I just thought, “Forget it.”
What about advertising deals?
I’ve had offers. And I think they’re making a doll of me, a doll that insults you. Can you imagine?
Simon’ famous put-downs
POSH: Her album was rubbish. She needs to rethink her career.
KYM MARSH: She never looked like she wanted a pop career.
BRITNEY: I hated her last single. She tries too hard to be sexy.
RIK WALLER: The only reason people remember him is because he’s fat.
J-LO: Appalling. She represents what I loathe about certain artists
Saturday, August 05, 2006
| Si's Anger Factor |
August 4, 2006
By Mark Jeffries for The Daily Star
Angry Simon Cowell has told ITV he wants "A-list celebrities" on the next Celebrity X Factor -- otherwise he will refuse to take part.
Acid-tongued Simon, 46, was unhappy with the calibre of stars on the first edition of the charity show.
Flops included vanishing magician Paul Daniels, 68, his assistant Debbie McGee, 48, and toff James Hewitt, 48. A source said: "Simon is very keen to protect The X Factor as a show.
"Another celeb series with rubbish names could cheapen the brand so he is putting his foot down."
But Cowell is "delighted" with the talent in the new regular series of The X Factor, which starts on August 19.
Friday, August 04, 2006
| Paula Hamiltron's Road to Recovery |
July 29, 2006
By Chrissy Iley for The Daily Mail
She was the top model who ditched her mink in the famous car ad, but, in real life, Paula Hamilton threw more away when she spiralled into drug and drink addiction. She tells Chrissy Iley about her first boyfriend Simon Cowell...
Almost 20 years ago, Paula Hamilton reached the zenith of her modelling career in an iconic TV ad for the Volkswagen Golf -- the one where she flung off her mink, her pearls and her man, but kept the keys to the car.
This little playlet became a strange metaphor for Paula's life because she's always been looking for keys. Keys to who she is and, more importantly, the key to happiness.
Her past has been chaotic -- an addiction to drink and drugs with lots of men along the way; a horror tale that became compulsive viewing...
She has now reinvented herself as a judge -- outspoken, but wise and experienced -- on TV's Britain's Next Top Model...
She appears both much younger than she is and much older. 'I wish I'd known as a child that if you are going to be an individual it's okay; you don't have to follow the crowd. That's the advice that I give on Britain's Next Top Model,' she says. Is that why she has been called the Simon Cowell of the show, because of her honesty? She laughs again.
'I haven't seen Simon for years, but from the age of 12 to 17 he was my first boyfriend. We went to school together. He was great fun and we got into so much trouble. We used to laugh our heads off all the time. He would say that he wanted to be involved in music and I always wanted to be a model...
Thursday, August 03, 2006
| Silly Cowell: Sharon and Louis Will Tease Him on Fur Coat Girl |
August 3, 2006
By Nicola Methven for The Mirror
X Factor judges Sharon Osbourne and Louis Walsh aim to wind up Simon Cowell live on TV by bringing up his affair with fur coat girl Jasmine Lennard.
The trio have spent weeks at nationwide auditions for the hit ITV show, starting its third run this month. Now Sharon and Simon intend to make Cowell squirm when it goes live before studio audiences.
An insider said: "No one has had the guts to mention Jasmine to Simon -- although he was busy dealing with the fallout last week. Louis and Sharon have joked it's brilliant ammunition for their legendary showdowns. Expect quips about girls in fur."
Production staff are worried how Simon, whose firm Syco co-produces X Factor, will react to jibes. One said: "There would be no point banning Sharon or Louis mentioning it -- they are laws unto themselves." Last week The Mirror caught Cowell, 46, enjoying a late night tryst with wannabe model Jasmine, 21.
She arrived at his Holland Park house in skimpy underwear beneath a huge fur coat -- in 81C heat. In a bid to placate girlfriend Terri Seymour, Cowell claimed Jasmine was just one of several guests.
But no one else arrived or left the £7.5million pad between 9pm and 3am. Friends claimed they had secretly dated for months.
X Factor starts on August 19 with auditions followed by boot camp for successful acts. ITV pray it will revive slumping ratings.
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
| 'Idol' Copycats Finally Achieve Success |
August 01, 2006
By Megan Manni for FOX News
It's taken five seasons, but at least two shows have finally mastered the art of copying "American Idol."
FOX’s "So You Think You Can Dance" and NBC’s "America's Got Talent," another vision by "Idol"'s Simon Cowell, have been neck and neck in the ratings, drawing an average of just over 9 million viewers each. And several other talent shows have debuted or are set to debut this summer.
But back in 2003, revivals of "Dance Fever" and "Star Search" joined "American Juniors," "America’s Most Talented Kid" and "Fame" in TV’s search for a slice of the "American Idol" pie — and they all pretty much flopped in one season. So what makes this year different?
“In 2003 'American Idol' was a hit, but not a crazy hit yet. It had only just become the number one show,” said Professor Jason Mittell, who teaches film and media studies at Middlebury College in Vermont.
So it's the ever-growing success of "Idol" that's helping the spinoffs succeed. But while "Dance" and "Talent" both air on Wednesdays with results shows on Thursdays — exactly copying the "Idol" format — people in the TV biz say originality has been crucial to their success.
“Variety is the key here," Simon Cowell told BBC News regarding the success of "America's Got Talent." "You absolutely have no idea who is coming up next. In the space of 15 minutes, we saw a juggler, an acrobat, an amazing 14-year- old singer and a 68-year-old male stripper.”
Cowell is also set to do it again with "Duets," which will debut on FOX on Aug. 31. "Duets" will partner seasoned performers with celebrities otherwise unassociated with music or singing to see what ensues.
Mittell agreed with reality show guru Mark Burnett that the only shows that make it "have a different feel.”
“Some of these shows are less building off 'American Idol' and more 'Dancing with the Stars' and 'Skating with Celebrities,' he said. "Those seem to have the 'celebreality'/talent show cross and have done something new with the genre. Dance is not the same skill set as 'AI,' and skating is significantly different than dancing.”
But Mittell also thinks the successful "Idol" copycats "balance imitation and originality, with most hits having degree of familiarity."
That familiarity presents itself on "America’s Got Talent" in the form of the judging triumvirate of David Hasselhoff, Brandy and British critic Piers Morgan — a cookie-cutter model of the "American Idol" panel.
Singer/actress Brandy serves as the Paula Abdul of the bunch, who is not afraid to reject people but does it in a nurturing way.
Morgan is the obvious clone of sharp-tongued, brutally honest Cowell.
Former "Knight Rider" Hasselhoff provides some of the comic relief a la Randy Jackson, and serves as someone who has had extended industry experience, even if he has been the butt of a few jokes himself. And Regis Philbin plays the Ryan Seacrest role.
“One of the reasons people do watch ["Idol"] is to see what Simon has to say. Some of them want to see Paula reassuring the contestants. It’s that positive, American dream. But what people want is at least one judge to be a straight shooter," Mittell said.
“Dance,” which debuted in 2005 and was created by 'AI' producers Nigel Lythgoe and Simon Fuller, is seeing a boom in its second season on FOX. Boasting a brand-new host this year in British model, presenter and former MTV/UK VJ Cat Deeley, the show also holds nationwide auditions.
The current talent competitions seem a throwback to '40s and '50s-era shows like "Arthur Godfrey’s Talent Scouts" and "Ted Mack’s Original Amateur Hour," which debuted on radio, and even "The Gong Show" and the original "Dance Fever" from the '70s.
"America’s Got Talent" has been dubbed the modern “Gong Show,” and the popularity of dance contest shows recalls audiences' love for “Dance Fever” and other variety shows that had otherwise disappeared.
“'America’s Got Talent' is really an extension of the audition portion of 'American Idol,'” Mittell said. “Half of the people are talented, some of them are freaks, which is part of the appeal. The winners I saw were not this polished, perfect ‘Idol,’ but of a different ilk.”
But the game show boom of 2000 inspired by the also-Philbin- hosted "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?" didn’t last. Will talent shows stick?
After starting with a bang last month, "America's Got Talent" is beginning to taper off. Ratings for last Wednesday night's two- hour episode were down by 24 percent from the show's average so far this season, and down one-third since its debut.
Still, the show ranked No. 1 for the night among all viewers — but trailed rival "So You Think You Can Dance" badly in the ad- friendly 18-to-49-years-old category, according to the New York Post.
Mittell thinks the shows are here to stay, but only as long as "American Idol" remains a hit.
“As long as the 'AI' brand maintains itself, it will sustain itself; the same way 'Survivor' still does,” he said. “But I wouldn’t be surprised if [the boom] runs its course.”
| Jasmine Lennard, Author |
August 2, 2006
By Sue Carroll for The Mirror
The talentless, rude, self-obsessed sometime model, former junkie and so-called socialite Jasmine Lennard, who the Daily Mirror revealed to be having a fling with Simon Cowell, is planning a tell-all book called All Eyes On Me.
In your dreams, love.
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
| Why We Love Those Mean Brits: Nothing Like a Tongue Lashing From Gordon and Simon |
July 27, 2006
By Claire Atkinson for Ad Age
Lately the TV airwaves have been chock-full of didactic Brits telling whimpering Americans how to sing, dance, cook, clean their houses and raise their kids. On the broadcast networks alone, Advertising Age counted 10 such no-nonsense personalities.
Top of the list, of course, is the original "mean Brit," Simon Cowell, followed by Nigel Lythgoe ("So You Think You Can Dance?") and Piers Morgan ("America's Got Talent"). Then there's the three uniformed babysitters on Fox's "Nanny 911" and ABC's "SuperNanny." There's also Peter Jones, the straight-laced suit on the now-defunct "American Inventor" (also a Simon Cowell creation), and the potty-mouthed chef Gordon Ramsay on "Hell's Kitchen."
'Goodbye'
Don't forget cable. Lifetime airs the filthy "How Clean Is Your House?" with Brits Kim and Aggie. Repeats of NBC's "The Weakest Link," starring chilly Anne Robinson, are now airing on cable network USA. Ms. Robinson, whose catchphrase was "You are the weakest link. Goodbye," was once voted the rudest woman on TV by readers of a British magazine.
Mean Brits are the secret sauce of TV ratings. To the industry's astonishment "American Idol" grew its 18- to 49-year-old audience 15% year-over-year, despite Mr. Cowell's comment that the producers might need a bigger stage for contestant Mandisa (he later apologized).
'Nasty Nigel'
Fox spun ratings magic with "So You Think You Can Dance?," the top show this summer among 18- to 49-year-olds. Mr. Lythgoe is known to British audiences as "Nasty Nigel" -- he appeared on the U.K. version of "American Idol" and is attached to the U.S. show as executive producer.
"Hell's Kitchen," a boot camp for aspiring chefs, is the No. 1 show in its Monday time slot. Mr. Ramsay, who helms the show, is a gold mine of ribald put-downs. Sample this: In response to a customer asking for more pumpkin in his risotto, Mr. Ramsay responds: "Right. Well, I'll get you more pumpkin and I'll ram it right up your f***ing ass. Would you like it whole or diced?" Fox just renewed "Hell's Kitchen" for a third outing.
NBC's "America's Got Talent" is the No. 1 original series airing this summer, averaging 11.3 million viewers. Mr. Morgan is the ruthless former editor of British tabloid The Daily Mirror." He exited the newspaper after it accidentally printed fake pictures of Iraqi prisoners being tortured. "America's Got Talent" comes from Mr. Cowell's production company Syco TV, and while Mr. Morgan started off as something of a Simon impersonator, he has lately been tempering his comments and has been more encouraging of the child talent.
Accent equals intelligence?
"American culture is still very [Angophilic]," said Robert Thompson, director of the Center for the Study of Popular Culture at Syracuse University. "When we hear the British accent spoken, we make the assumption that the person is smart. We also still have a good deal of cultural inferiority that we've felt over the last two centuries. We abandoned civilized society to come and wrestle bears."
Mr. Thompson also argues that the accent is a device that helps tough talk go down a little smoother. "It sounds mellifluous. If you had someone saying the same words as Simon Cowell [does] in a Brooklyn or a Chicago accent, it would be too much."
TV buyer Gary Carr, senior VP-director of broadcast at Targetcast, thinks the profusion of mean Brits across the dial has a simple explanation: "TV is a very copycat medium. This seems to be a formula."
Simon, it seems, has become a character type that must be replicated in just about every variety show.
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