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Wednesday, May 30, 2007
| Idol Judge's Sex Secrets Exposed |
May 30, 2007
By Staff Writers for Stuff
Simon Cowell has been left red-faced after his sex secrets were exposed on a TV tribute show about his life.
Simon's fellow American Idol judge Paula Abdul joked about the music mogul's performance in the bedroom while recording her contribution for the episode of British show This Is Your Life.
Paula, 44, quipped: "Simon is an egomaniac. He's the only man I know who screams his own name when having sex. And his idea of foreplay is staring at himself in the mirror."
The incident was made even more embarrassing for Simon, 47, as Paula made the comments in front of an audience including his 80-year-old mother Julie.
Simon's older brother Tony, 55, also let slip the music mogul would wear make-up to feign illness to get out of going to school.
He said: "He used to wear pale make-up to look ill so he could get out of going to school."
The programme -- presented by veteran British newsreader Sir Trevor McDonald -- is to be broadcast on June 2, when viewers will see Simon reunited with various faces from his past.
Fellow The X Factor judge Sharon Osbourne, his singer ex-girlfriend Sinitta and TV presenting duo Ant and Dec were all involved with the show.
Even pop manager Louis Walsh appeared to show there were no hard feelings after being axed from Simon's UK talent show The X Factor.
After filming, Simon's girlfriend Terri Seymour threw a lavish bash for the star and all his friends and family.
| Code to Call Time on Reality Show Cruelty |
May 29, 2007
By Matthew Hemley for The Stage
A code of conduct aimed at preventing the exploitation and humiliation of contestants on talent search shows such as The X Factor could be soon be introduced in an effort to protect people who are at their most “vulnerable”.
Equity is to meet with broadcasters to discuss what would be included in such a code, which would mean judges such as Simon Cowell would have to adhere to strict policies on how to treat those people who take part.
Proposals for the code of conduct were put forward by the Birmingham Variety Branch at this year’s conference, calling on Equity to “immediately commence talks” with broadcasters following concerns that the shows were ridiculing people who were “vulnerable and at the start of their careers”.
Birmingham Variety Branch secretary Jim Townsend said broadcasters should have to follow the same procedures used when people audition for drama or light entertainment.
Under these conditions, he said any producer wanting to record the auditions would have to abide by specific conditions, including providing advance notification that the audition will be filmed and agreeing that the footage will not be used in the subsequent show.
Townsend also said the tapes must be destroyed on completion of the programme.
He added: “No such safeguards exist in these so called reality programmes and the failure of some participants is bloated out to become the entertainment itself.”
Equity is also to make sure that participants in talent search shows are paid in line with Equity agreements and the welfare of the winners selected from these programmes is “protected”.
“Too often participants wreck their voices by taking part in daily shows and matinees.
“That is what happened to Connie Fisher in the How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria? The voice is a musical instrument and should be treated as such,” Townsend said.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
| Squabbling Cowell and Walsh Make Up |
May 29, 2007
By Staff Writers for UK Yahoo, and
May 28, 2007
By Rebecca Evans for The Mirror and Staff Writers for The Sun
Louis Walsh hugged and made up with Simon Cowell last night — by turning up to his This Is Your Life show.
The Irishman vowed never to talk to Cowell, 47, again after being axed by him as an X Factor judge.
But he was persuaded to appear in a peace treaty brokered by Cowell’s girlfriend Terri Seymour, 32.
A source said: “Simon had no idea Louis was coming.”
Tycoon Cowell looked shocked when he saw Louis walk on stage. He said: "This is going to be very uncomfortable."
Louis replied: "Not for me."
The pair always played Punch and Judy for the crowds on the X Factor but things turned ugly when Walsh blamed Cowell for giving him the sack from the show.
Walsh said of the sacking: "I was axed from the X Factor, stabbed in the back. The buck stops with Simon. He hires and he fires."
Cowell said he aims to put the experience to good use in a TV drama about two feuding TV talent show judges: Rock Rivals, the latest show from Footballers' Wives creators Shed Productions.
Now it appears the row is behind them. The pair seemed genuinely happy to bury the hatchet as Simon said: "I humbly offer a grovelling apology — Louis give me a hug."
After the pair hug, Louis tells Sir Trevor: "Listen, honestly, he's the best. He's a really good guy and we've had amazing success with our artists (including Westlife and Shayne Ward) so far. And we're going to have a lot more with our records."
Simon laughingly claimed Louis's sacking was just an April Fool gag. Louis said plaintively: "But it was March 7!"
He went on: "All is forgiven. Forgiven but not forgotten."
Cowell said: "Let's just say forgiven, alright."
Walsh replied: "Whatever."
| Road-trip Buddies |
May 28, 2007
By Courtenay Edelhart for The Indianapolis Star
Poor Paris.
Already smarting from getting caught driving with a suspended license, socialite Paris Hilton ranks second-lowest among travelers' picks for road-trip companions, according to a new survey.
Hilton drew a mere 14 percent of votes, according to Rand McNally's 2007 Great American Road Trip Survey. Only merciless Simon Cowell of "American Idol" scored lower, with 7 percent of votes.
Ellen DeGeneres led the ranks with 32 percent, followed by fellow talk show host Oprah Winfrey and comedian Will Ferrell.
The survey queried 4,000 adults across the country.
Saturday, May 26, 2007
| Simon Cowell on Being a One-Man Entertainment Empire |
May 25, 2007
By Staff Writers for Extra TV
He's a self-made tycoon whose Midas touch has made him one of Britain’s richest showbiz entrepreneurs with an estimated net worth of more than $200 million.
He’s also a bona fide Hollywood TV mogul, with hits including “American Idol,” “American Inventor” and “America’s Got Talent,” which just been sold to 40 other countries.
Now, the one and only Simon Cowell, whose riches have bought him a fleet of luxury cars and several multi-million- dollar mansions on two continents, is revealing the secrets of his phenomenal success in an exclusive interview with “Extra’s” very own Terri Seymour.
Terri Seymour: Ever wonder why you've been so lucky?
Simon Cowell: You make your own luck, Terri, and you know, you’ve got to take risks. If people aren’t talking about your shows, you’ve got a problem.
TS: What do you do when people say no?
SC: I make them say yes.
TS: How do you twist their arm?
SC: Relentless pressure.
TS: Would you say you're a workaholic?
SC: Yes, but I’m in a good position because I enjoy what I do.
TS: Ever think you'll retire?
SC: I’d rather drop dead than retire. At least it's quick.
TS: So what's next for the man who's already done it all? A clothing line?
SC: Who’d by my clothes? Seriously?
Looks like Simon is just going to stick to what he knows best and what has already made him king of the TV hill.
Friday, May 25, 2007
| 'Idol' Aisle Walk? |
May 24, 2007
By Steve Berry for The Columbus Dispatch
Simon Cowell, 47, has asked his girlfriend of 4 1/2 years -- Terri Seymour, 33 -- to marry him, The National Enquirer says.
Stay tuned for a denial.
| Inventing New Idols: Simon Cowell on 'American Inventor' Season Two |
May 25, 2007
By Daniel Robert Epstein for The New York Post
Simon Cowell is admittedly one of the most despised men in America--and it's clear he wouldn't have it any other way. He's best known as the brutally honest, Brit judge on the ratings bonanza American Idol which just crowned its new reigning (teen) queen, Jordin Sparks--openly praised by the fault-finding Simon.
But for his latest show, American Inventor, now going into its second season on ABC, Cowell has stepped behind-the-scenes as the program's producer. He has left the eclectic judges, George Foreman, Pat Croce and Sara Blakely to their own devices. In its first season, the buzzed-about show produced a successful inventor and awarded his creation with the $1 million dollar prize.
The new season of American Inventor premieres Wednesday, June 6, at 9 pm EST. And Simon gives Hollywood.com an exclusive sneak peek of what's to come.
Hollywood.com: What was the diagnosis of American Inventor's first season, and how did you try to improve upon the model you already had?
Simon Cowell: Well it's always easier to make the second show than it is the first show. There were elements of the first show I liked, and elements of the first show I didn't like. I thought it needed at least one well-known person on the panel, and the person I'd always wanted to do this show from the day we created it was George Foreman. He liked the show last year and once we got him the whole production got that much easier. I felt it needed a kick up the butt as shows often do. I've seen the first rough cut and it's in a different league to last year's show.
HW: So, what distinguishes this season from the first?
SC: We think it has found its own identity this year. It is like the thinking person's American Idol. It's not a bunch of singers trying to be famous. These are people who have given up thousands of dollars, sometimes hundreds of thousands of dollars, all in the hope that this show is going to rescue them. So it's both funny and sad and sometimes actually quite tragic, but it's a brilliantly made show this time around. I'm very proud of it.
HW: Was there ever any thought of increasing the $1 million prize?
SC: Well, $1 million is still a lot of money. I was thinking of halving it and keeping the other half for my expenses, but ABC wouldn't let me. It's a great prize. All the finalists also get $50,000 to develop [their inventions] and of course, they get the product manufactured. That's really what it's all about for these people; they want their product on the show.
HW: There are certain rules that these inventors have to follow. Did anybody try to slip anything through that wasn't allowed?
SC: I wasn't there during all of the auditions. I'm sure there were lots of people who came in and made all sorts of wild claims, but then actually couldn't make engines that run on salt water, flying cars and all that sort of stuff. We allowed anyone to enter the show, any age, they could come with drawings, finished products, whatever they wanted.
HW: Why do you feel having George Foreman on the panel will help the show?
SC: I think with any show like this you've got to have a star on the show. I would have put George on the first series, but because of availability problems he couldn't do it. But you'll see the impact he makes on the show in the second series. The whole show has glammed-up tremendously. It's a much better panel this time around--and it's more intense. I think it's going to make a big difference.
HW: Can the auditions get just as "bad" for this show as they are for Idol?
SC: I only saw the first cut last night and I would say 70 percent of the people who were on show are probably insane. I've never seen anything so weird in all my life.
HW: What were some of my weirder things that you saw?
SC: Everything was weird. They all come in with these strange ideas. Amazingly, they've all got normal jobs and they've invented what they think are incredible ideas. One guy came in and his invention was the wheel. He literally went crazy and nearly beat up the judges because they said, "it's already been invented." But that's what you get when you get lots of people who are blind to anything other than their invention. They won't take "no" for an answer. But in a way, I think it's more tragic than Idol because they've spent so much money trying to get these things made or developed so when they get a no, it's horrible. Sometimes it's actually quite uncomfortable to watch.
HW: Unlike contestants on American Idol, these inventors are really creating something, rather trying to highlight something within themselves. Can they really be judged in the same way?
SC: That's part of the reason I changed the panel up this year. George Foreman is somebody who made a quite simple product. I think he sold 100 million or something of those George Foreman grills. He made it successful and I think he was a good example that if you believe in something, even if it's something fairly straightforward, it can happen. The reason I wanted Sara [Blakely] in particular was because she was running around town with what everybody thought was a silly idea [the footless pantyhose], and she's become a billionaire through this product.
HW: The real challenge of the show seems to be finding great inventors who also have winning personalities.
SC: Yes, I think you're right. I think you'll find that some of the people they back are people who've got great personalities, as well as great products. That's taking me back again to George Foreman, I think it's one of the reasons why his grill was so popular was because you had a guy with incredible charisma who believed in his product and every time he went on TV millions of people bought it. You've got to have a great product and you've got to be interesting.
HW: Have you ever created a gadget of your own?
SC: No, the only thing I've ever created is shows. But it is a similar process. You've got to start with an idea, and then you've got to get the thing made. And then you hope it's going to be a success, so I know what these people are going through. When we were selling Idol, everyone turned it down. American Inventor is the only show available to these people and there are literally tens of thousands of people in this country who've all got great ideas and they don't know where to go with them.
HW: Is there an invention that you have that you can't live without?
SC: Yes, it's called the SoniCare toothbrush. It's the best toothbrush in the world; and I will not live without it and I freak out when I lose it. It's electrical and it goes crazy inside your mouth. It's like going to the dentist. I sincerely recommend it.
HW: Can you update us on last year's champion [Janusz Liberkowski] and his car seat prototype, the Anecia Survival Capsule?
SC: He's doing well. But because of the nature of the invention you've got to go through months, if not years, of unbelievable safety checks. But we got a company to finance that, and I understand that it will be on the market within two years…they're very excited about it.
HW: Will you appear on American Inventor all?
SC: No, I won't but I'm a very heavy influence on this show. It's edited the way I like. I believe that when you make a reality show you've got to show the good and the bad.
HW: On Idol you are the straight-talking judge--is that missing from Inventor?
SC: It was and I think that's changed, particularly with Pat Croce. The one thing we said to the judges this year was that they've got to remember that they've got a lot of lives in their hands, but they've got to treat this as if it was their day job. George Foreman is unbelievably supportive to everybody because he's that guy and Pat, in particular, is the voice of reason.
HW: So you see George filling out the role of nice guy?
SC: Oh yes. He genuinely is one of the nicest people I've ever met. … Pat and Peter [Jones] are quite tough to please but that's what we needed on the show this year. We didn't ask them to be mean or anything like that. We said "Together you're all worth about $3 billion, so do what you do in your day job and play it straight."
HW: How many shows are you involved in these days?
SC: If I count them from around the world at the moment, I've got something like 50 to 60 shows in production right now.
HW: Wow!
SC: Yeah, it's a quite a lot.
HW: Which ones are you most involved in?
SC: Every single one. During the launch and the development of a show, whether it's Idol or Inventor or X-Factor or America's Got Talent, they completely and utterly consume you. So I spend as much time on all the shows now. I can sometimes be sitting in an edit room until 4:00 or 5:00 in the morning.
HW: So most of your time is spent as a TV producer, rather than a record producer?
SC: Yes, I would say it's probably 70/30 [percents] TV to music now; and part of the reason is that we've got Clive Davis over here in the States to look after the Idol winners, so we're putting these artists in very good hands.
HW: Is there anything short of murder that cannot be turned into a contest for television?
SC: We're contemplating that one next. Why not? Maybe we could incorporate it into Idol at some point [laughs]. You've got to make sure that you've got an interesting subject. Even though inventions sound boring on paper, the people behind them have always fascinated me because they're normally 'normal' people with 'normal' jobs who've ended up sacrificing tons of money and a lot of time in the belief that this thing is going to turn them into a billionaire. … They are mortgage brokers, they work in cafes or whatever and they've all put everything on the line for these weird ideas. I find that fascinating.
HW: I've read a number of bios on you and of course, you work with very talented people, but it seems like a lot of the bands that you are most famous for putting together feel like manufactured products.
SC: I've always treated the music business as a business. I always looked at Idol as one of my artists and as a route to selling more records. I've probably now got 100 Idol artists around the world signed to my label so it was another business decision. That's the way I've always viewed the music business and I think it's the right way of viewing it. I've never done it for art; I've done it to sell records.
HW: But is that where the best work comes from?
SC: My main concern is that people enjoy what I'm making, and that I'm able to sell a lot of records. I've never believed in leaving some sort of artistic legacy. We just want a lot of people to enjoy these shows and I don't care about winning awards or not. I just want ratings.
HW: Do you think that Melinda Doolittle's loss hurts the show's credibility?
SC: No I don't think it hurts the show's credibility. When you allow the public to choose, you've got to live and die by the votes. I didn't agree with the vote, but more people should have dialed for Melinda. It was as simple as that.
HW: This has been a pretty crazy season.
SC: I like crazy. I would never want to be in a situation where the final 12 are normal people, because I think it would be boring. The panel is wacky enough therefore the contestants should be a bit strange as well. I thought the whole Sanjaya thing was hysterical.
HW: You seemed to be irritated by him on the show.
SC: I'm happy now because he's off. I don't think I'd be happy if he was in finals, so I can now be quite smug about it. But looking back, I thought it was quite amusing.
HW: You hear reports that the ratings on Idol are a bit down.
SC: You go down, you go up. It's still eight million ahead of the second place show. By season six we're still number one, averaging 28 million so I'll take that. I didn't think we'd get beyond season one so every other season's been a bonus.
HW: Did the loss of Sanjaya hurt the ratings?
SC: Maybe it did for a week or two then the competition got back into its groove.
HW: Taylor Hicks' album isn't selling as well as people thought it would, is that you being right again?
SC: Yes, completely. … I was talking to someone about this the other day. I was saying, don't confuse talent with popularity, because this is a talent show; and no one listened to me at the time, and they all laughed at me when he won last year. I remember saying he's not the best person we've had in here; he's just the most popular.
HW: I imagine you as the kind of guy who likes when people throw barbs back at him. Maybe that's why you liked recent contestant Chris Sligh's cheeky personality?
SC: Yes, I encourage it. I don't think they do it enough because they all think they're going to be voted off if they're rude to me. I think it's the opposite. I think the more they are rude to me the more votes they'll get. I think off-camera they're going completely nuts complaining about me, and then on camera they're just smiling and I don't understand that. I think it should be two-way; if I'm rude to them, they're more than entitled to be rude back to me.
| Simon Cowell Advises Britney, Says Melinda's 'The Best' |
May 24, 2007
By Staff Writers for MTV
Melinda Doolittle should have won "American Idol" — and Britney Spears needs to ditch her "stupid friends" if she wants to save her career, Simon Cowell told "Good Morning America" on Thursday (May 24).
The "Idol" judge summed up Wednesday night's results ("the singer won over the entertainer"), called Jordin Sparks the season's "most improved" contestant and said Melinda "tried the hardest, was consistently the best, and had the best voice."
And as for Britney, Simon says he could have put her on the right path back in 2006.
"My advice to her six months ago was to go home to your family, lock the door, don't go out with your stupid friends, have some home-cooked food. Get a sense of reality. ... And then say to yourself, 'There's more good in my life than bad. I'm still a rich, talented girl and now I want to get my career back on track.' End of story."
| Simon Cowell Is First Celebrity 'Victim' for Revived This Is Your Life |
May 24, 2007
By Staff Writers for The Daily Mail and Sara Nathan for The Sun
Simon Cowell has become the first celebrity to fall "victim" to the new This Is Your Life surprise.
The music mogul - TV's Mr Nasty -- was ambushed live on American Idol last night, just hours after it was revealed that the hit show with the famous red book is coming back to our screens.
Cowell took it in good spirits when Sir Trevor rocked up with the red book, while his fellow talent show judges Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson looked on in amusement.
Cowell said: “Is this a wind-up? I’m actually really embarrassed.”
The full This Is Your Life -- with Cowell's friends and family gathered together - will be filmed on Sunday.
| Simon Gets Big Red Book |
May 25, 2007
By Staff Writers for The Daily Star
Simon Cowell was speechless for the first time when Sir Trevor McDonald gatecrashed the live final of American Idol and announced: “This Is Your Life.”
More than 30 million viewers in the States saw Sir Trev, 67, “hijack” the show to hand stunned Simon, 47, the famous Big Red Book.
Telly’s Mr Nasty was so shocked, he could only give the veteran newsreader a big hug. British viewers will be able to see the one-off episode of This Is Your Life on June 2. It is being recorded in London this Sunday.
And Simon – along with millions of viewers – will be left guessing whether axed X Factor stars Louis Walsh, 54, and Kate Thornton, 34, will be among those paying their tributes.
Sources claim both had been invited, but insiders say they are not expected to appear because feelings are still running high over their sackings from the top-rated ITV1 show.
However, Simon WILL be getting messages from Jennifer Lopez, 37, and Oprah Winfrey, 53.
Others tipped to take part include X Factor judge Sharon Osbourne, 54, and Ant and Dec, both 31.
X Factor winner Leona Lewis, 22, and Simon’s discoveries il Divo will also be playing live.
Next month Sir Trevor is also due to front new show News Knight – ITV1’s answer to BBC1’s Have I Got News For You?
| American Idol Sponsors Bush Baby at Milwaukee County Zoo |
May 24, 2007
By Staff Writers for My Fox Milwaukee
One of the more memorable moments from the Season Six auditions was when judge Simon Cowell told a contestant, "You look like one of those creatures that live in the jungle with those massive eyes, what are they called, bush baby."
Wednesday night during the 'Idol' finale, Kenneth Briggs and his friend Jonathan took home the Golden Idol Award for Best Buddies.
Host Ryan Seacrest also unveiled a special surprise.
"Take a look at that screen over there. That is a real bush baby," he said. "And we have sponsored one on your behalf at the Milwaukee County Zoo."
Appropriately, American Idol had the Milwaukee County Zoo name this little guy "Simon."
Simon is one of only a handful of bush babies at zoos around the country.
"Here's a chance to have our name on a TV show that's going to be watched by millions of millions of people tonight," Milwaukee County Zoo Director Chuck Wikenhauser told FOX 6 News. "And, they're gonna pay us for the opportunity. So, I thought well, okay!"
American Idol Producers agreed to donated $1500 to sponsor Simon.
The bush baby's former name was "Boing Boing."
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
| Ozzy Osbourne in 'Tirade' at Simon Cowell |
May 22, 2007
By Pam Caulfield for 24 Dash
Rocker Ozzy Osbourne has challenged sneering X- Factor judge Simon Cowell: "You get up and perform."
The wildman of rock is furious that Cowell continually slags off kids who are churn through the TV show auditions in search of a showbiz break.
Ozzy believes the show 'damns' people just for trying their best. "Tell you what, Simon: get up there and show us how it's meant to be done," he stormed in Heat magazine.
The 58-year-old rock legend says he would never join his wife Sharon as a judge on the show because it puts too much pressure on contestants: "I don't like damning people; it is the worst fucking thing I have ever heard."
He adds: "People who put themselves on the X-Factor have got guts; "Those Kids, they have got a lot of bottle to get up there in front of millions of people. I couldn't do it, and I'm 38 years in the business!"
| Cowell: 'I'll Accept Indecent Proposal for More Money' |
May 22, 2007
By Staff Writers for Contact Music
Simon Cowell regrets turning down $100,000 (GBP50,000) from a couple who wanted him to judge their love- making -- and has now offered his services for an increased fee.
The American Idol star was flabbergasted when the elderly couple made their indecent proposal, and now wishes he hadn't been so quick to dismiss their request.
Speaking to chat show host Jay Leno on US TV last night (21May07), Cowell said, "They were an elderly couple -- which is why I said no -- who came up to me in a restaurant and said, 'We'll pay you $100,000 (GBP50,000) if you judge us in bed.' And stupidly I said no.
"So if you (the couple) are watching a) I will say yes and b) the rates have gone up slightly -- $200,000 ($400,000) per hour but I'll do a deal for the night. I'll come and judge you, give you a few tips, whatever you want."
| Cowell Quitting Idol |
May 23, 2007
By WENN for UK Yahoo
Music mogul Simon Cowell has stunned American Idol fans by revealing he's quitting the show in three years time.
The show's Mr. Nasty insists he won't be signing up for more episodes of the talent show after completing the 10th season of the TV phenomenon.
He tells U.S. news show Extra, "I'll have done 10 series and your time's up. It's time then to do something new. I think it's time to bring in new people... Ten years is a long time."
And, as for who he'd pick to replace him on the show, Cowell has one name in mind: "Donald Trump".
| Who Would Be A Good Replacement for Simon? |
May 22, 2007
By Staff Writers for Extra TV
On the other hand...
Don’t worry “Idol” fans, Simon Cowell isn’t retiring any time soon. In fact, he told “Extra,” “I think I’d rather drop dead than retire. At least it’s quick.”
But should Judge Dread choose to say goodbye to “American Idol,” he would pick Donald Trump as his replacement.
| Hucknall: 'Cowell Ruined Music' |
May 23, 2007
By WENN for UK Yahoo
Singer Mick Hucknall has blasted pop mogul and reality TV judge Simon Cowell -- insisting he has ruined music.
The Fairground singer believes esteemed lyricists such as John Lennon and Bob Dylan would not have flourished if they began their careers in today's musical climate.
He says, "Slimy (Cowell) has done a massive disservice to real artistic creativity. There's no space for people like Dylan, Lennon and the Stones in Slimy's world."
| Cowell Hails 'Survivor' Hilton |
May 22, 2007
By Staff Writers for Contact Music
Simon Cowell insists Paris Hilton's upcoming jail sentence for violating her probation for driving on a suspended license won't hinder her career, because the socialite is a "survivor".
Music mogul Cowell admits he feels sorry for Hilton, who is scheduled to begin a 45-day jail sentence, although this could be reduced to as little as 23 days, by 5 June (07).
He says, "I feel a bit sorry for Paris to be honest with you. Does she deserve to go to jail? No, I don't think so. But she's a survivor.
"I'm not condoning what she did and I think she knows she made a mistake, but there's worse things in the world and I just feel a bit sorry for her."
He adds, "She can come and stay with me for 45 days."
| Cowell Secretly Planning Thriller Tribute |
May 22, 2007
By Staff Writers for Contact Music
British music mogul Simon Cowell is planning to give Michael Jackson a huge career boost by creating a massive tribute show based on the pop superstar's epic album Thriller.
The American Idol and Pop Idol star is secretly working on a project to honour the 25th anniversary of the classic album in 2008. He says, "We're planning something with the record label, maybe for Thriller, but we'll see what happens - a big, big tribute."
| Cowell Mocks Abdul's Broken Nose |
May 22, 2007
By WENN for Hollywood.com
Simon Cowell was amused to hear of his fellow American Idol judge Paula Abdul's nose injury over the weekend, declaring, "She won't be talking at the finals."
Abdul was left with broken cartilage in her nose, a fractured toe and bruises when she tripped over her Chihuahua, Tulip.
Speaking to Jay Leno on The Tonight Show last night, Cowell asked, "How's the dog?"
When Leno replied, "What a cruel person," Cowell insisted, "Why? I like dogs."
Cowell says Abdul's nose injury will mean she is quieter than normal at the Idol shows on Wednesday and Thursday.
He explained, "Good, she won't be talking at the finals."
| The Things They Say |
May 23, 2007
By Staff Writers for Contact Music
"I thought it was a joke. I genuinely didn't think it was a true story."
Simon Cowell felt sure a story about fellow American Idol judge Paula Abdul tripping over her pet Chihuahua and breaking her nose at the weekend (20May07) was a joke.
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
| Cowell: 'I Would Never Have Sacked Hasselhoff Over Video' |
May 22, 2007
By WENN for UK Yahoo
Music mogul Simon Cowell has spoken out in defence of troubled David Hasselhoff, insisting he never came close to replacing the actor on hit TV show America's Got Talent after his recent video controversy.
Footage of a drunken Hasselhoff growling abuse at his teenage daughter was leaked to the media earlier this month, prompting many to believe his upcoming gig on Cowell's U.S. summer variety show would be scrapped.
But Cowell insists there's no way he'd replace Hasselhoff: "David is one of the kindest most loyal human beings I have ever met in my life and I will stand by David any day of the week."
Furthermore, if producers on the show had suggested that Hasselhoff should go after the controversy, Cowell would have quit.
He adds, "If he'd gone, I would've gone. We're like that, me and David; he's a loyal friend."
| Cowell Jealous at Ant and Dec's Salary |
May 22, 2007
By Staff Writers for What's on TV
Ant and Dec have revealed that Simon Cowell was not a happy bunny when he found out about their whopping ITV contract.
The pair have a deal with the network worth a reported £40 million -- twice Simon's £20 million retainer -- and the X Factor judge is apparently a little jealous.
Britain's most popular Geordies told The Sun that things came to a head when they were filming with the 47-year-old.
Dec Donnelly, 31, said: "We were filming Britain's Got Talent and came into the studio the morning The Sun broke the story and the audience gave us a standing ovation. We were on cloud nine, but Simon just turned around and he was steaming.
"He hissed, 'You've curdled my milk, you've soured my apple'. He was so unhappy. Simon can't bear the thought of anyone being paid more than him."
But Ant McPartlin, 31, said it was fun working with Simon again on the ITV1 show.
"We love winding Simon up, it's great sport," he said. "He falls for it hook, line and sinker."
| ‘American I-dull’ |
May 21, 2007
By Timothy Finn for The kansas City Star
...Simon Cowell is the only reason to watch this show. He knows phoniness and weakness when he hears it, excretion when he sees it. He doesn’t flatter promiscuously, doesn’t suffer incompetence patiently. He does, occasionally, pull punches, but he doesn’t have a patronizing bone in his body. Rather he has the straight-shooting bedside manner of an oncologist, one who calls it as coldly as the X-rays see it: You suck, and it’s terminal.
His glacial candor is magnified by the gusts of withering inanity that waft and heave from his colleagues. You can’t parody Paula Abdul; her comments bear not a flicker of logic, her syntax has no roots in Western linguistics. Parsing one of her sentences would be like tracking the flight of a one-winged hummingbird. Worse, she doesn’t have the requisite gall for her job — to be a critic — so instead of saying, “You were bad, and here’s why,” she condescends to, “Um, you look pretty.”
Randy Jackson? He has Simon Cowell’s nose for garbage but doesn’t have his stones (or vocabulary) for describing what he smells. It would help if he dropped the “What’s Happening!!” jargon and conveyed some of his expertise as a producer and musician beyond obsolete lingo like, “You’re in it to win it, dawg.” Worse, he’s prone to waiver on a verdict after the two others have expressed a differing opinion...
Monday, May 21, 2007
| Casualty & X Factor take TV BAFTAs |
May 21, 2007
By Staff Writers for RTE Entertainment
'Casualty' and 'X Factor' were among the high profile winners at the British Academy Television Awards in London last night.
In a shock result, 'Casualty' saw off the challenge of soaps 'Coronation Street', 'EastEnders' and 'Emmerdale' to win the Best Continuing Drama award.
It was the first time 'Casualty' had won a BAFTA since it premiered in 1986.
For the second year running 'The X Factor' was named Best Entertainment Programme, beating 'Dancing on Ice', 'Derren Brown: The Heist' and 'How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria?' to the award.
Jim Broadbent was named Best Actor for his performance in 'Longford' while Victoria Wood was named Best Actress for her performance in 'Housewife 49'. 'Housewife 49' also won the Best Single Drama award.
Best Entertainment Performance went to Jonathan Ross for 'Friday Night with Jonathan Ross' while the Best Comedy Performance award went to Ricky Gervais for 'Extras'.
'The Street' was named Best Drama Series and the award for Best Drama Serial went to 'See No Evil: The Moors Murders'.
'The Royle Family: Queen of Sheba' was named Best Situation Comedy and 'That Mitchell & Webb Look' won the award for Best Comedy Programme.
The Audience Award went to 'Life on Mars' and 'Entourage' won the International Award.
'The Choir' won the Best Features award and 'Ross Kemp on Gangs' was named Best Factual Series.
The Specialist Factual award went to 'Nuremberg: Goering's Last Stand' and the Best Interactivity award went to 'Terry Pratchett's Hogfather'.
Sunday, May 20, 2007
| Bookies Close Book On Baftas; Cowell Really Does Have X Factor! |
May 19, 2007
By Staff Writers for William Hill
Bookies William Hill have closed the betting on the X Factor winning the Best Entertainment Programme at the BAFTA TV Awards on Monday, after punters backed it down from even money to 1/6 on!
"The X Factor was the hot favourite to win from day one and in the last ten days we have not taken a penny on any programme, it looks like Cowell will cost us again," said Hill's spokesman Rupert Adams.
Final Prices William Hill BAFTA Best Entertainment Programme:
1/6 X Factor
4/1 Dancing On Ice
8/1 How do you solve a problem like Maria?
16/1 Darren Brown: The Heist
Saturday, May 19, 2007
| Cowell Defends Clarkson |
May 19, 2007
By WENN for Yahoo UK
Simon Cowell has jumped to the defence of Kelly Clarkson, insisting she deserves the opportunity to try some of her own ideas for her forthcoming album, My December.
The Because Of You singer was recently forced to deny claims label bosses at RCA and Sony BMG were upset with her songwriting attempts for her third studio release, as was widely reported in the US media.
And Cowell believes the record company should let the American Idol winner experiment a little with My December, because they are "lucky" to have such a talented artist on their books.
He says, ''Kelly is not a puppet; she does not like to be told what to do. She could have gone the easy route, which is, you go with (Since U Been Gone producer) Max Martin -- it's a guaranteed success. She made it absolutely clear that she wanted to steer the musical direction on this record.
"You just gotta say, 'You know what? This girl has given us millions and millions of sales.' You've got to give her that opportunity. If it works out, fantastic. If she then decides she wants to do a pop album, every good writer and producer wants to work with her. Because Kelly will be here for 30 years. She has one of the best pop voices in the world right now.
"What she sold in the UK, Europe, Asia had nothing to do with American Idol. It had everything to do with the fact that she made a great record and she's got an incredible voice. She's not a girl who got lucky in a talent competition; we got lucky to find her.''
| Cowell Says He Can't Predict 'Idol' Winner |
May 19 2007
By Nichola Groom for Yahoo India
British music mogul Simon Cowell says he is not as smart or as mean as people think -- he cannot predict who will win "American Idol" and he wants contestants on the show to be rude to him when he is offensive to them.
The grumpy judge, whose acerbic comments draw boos each week on the top-rated televised singing contest, said on Friday this year's show has come down to a choice between a "brilliant entertainer" and a "great singer."
Jordin Sparks, a bubbly 17-year-old with huge voice, and spiky-haired Blake Lewis, 25, who puts a modern twist on classic songs, will square off next week in the two-part finale on Tuesday and Wednesday.
"I can't call it at this stage," Cowell told reporters on a conference call. "For Blake, he's a brilliant entertainer, but the negative is he's not a fantastic singer. The advantage for Jordin is she is a great singer and the negative is she hasn't done one performance yet which I can remember as a 'wow.'"
Cowell also entreated the "Idol" contestants to give back more of what he dishes out to them.
"They all think they are going to be voted off if they are rude to me," he said. "If I'm rude to them they are more than entitled to be rude to me back."
Cowell said he was amused by the long "Idol" run of Sanjaya Malakar, a contestant known for extreme hairstyles and mediocre singing.
"The whole Sanjaya thing was hysterical," said Cowell, who once threatened to quit if Malakar won. "I don't think I'd be happy if he was in the final, but looking back I think it was quite amusing."
Cowell said it was "unfair" that contestant Melinda Doolittle was eliminated from the show this week.
"She had delivered 10 weeks in a row better than anyone else," he said, adding that the experienced backup singer's age -- Doolittle is 29 -- may have made her less appealing to the show's teenage viewers.
"When you allow the public to choose, you've got to live and die by the vote," Cowell said.
| Simon Cowell: TV Talent Shows Are Rubbish |
May 18 2007
By Cher Tippetts for Entertainment Wise
Except his own obviously…
Simon Cowell has hit out at TV talent shows, dismissing them as “rubbish.”
Despite making his name and fortune on shows like ‘X Factor’ and ‘Pop Idol,’ Cowell reckons the public are getting sick of the poor-quality talent shows currently on offer.
“There’s a lot of rubbish reality TV out there, but the very best will survive,” he says.
By the “very best” Cowell is referring of course to his own shows, including his latest offering ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ which hits TV screens next month.
| Axed Kate Felt "Let Down" by Cowell |
May 19 2007
By Daniel Kilkelly for Digital Spy
Kate Thornton has admitted that she felt "let down" by Simon Cowell after being axed as the host of X Factor.
The decision came as a huge shock to the blonde presenter because she had previously been assured several times by Cowell that her job was in no danger.
"It was a very public sacking but it was also very private for me. I felt let down because I'd been assured privately and publicly by Simon that my job was safe. I took him at his word and he let me down," Kate told The Sun.
"It was reported that I was devastated and I spent days in tears, which wasn't the case. I was angry. I'd blocked out six months of my year for a job I thought was mine. I'm a freelancer and I would never, ever, judge an employer for not renewing my contract. That is their right. It's not what was done, it's how it was done."
Thornton has not spoken to Cowell since learning that she would not be returning for the fourth series of the talent show.
"He called me once but I didn't return his call," she admitted. "I simply didn't see the point. What would it achieve? I promised myself I wouldn't get into a war of words and I don't intend to. The people involved know how I feel. If I bump into Simon I won't feel awkward. I've done nothing wrong."
The X Factor returns in August with Dermot O'Leary fronting the programme.
| FYI for Fantasia Fans: Fantasia Scores in 'Purple' |
May 19, 2007
From Staff Reports for The News Observer
Fantasia miraculously charmed harsh judge Simon Cowell on her way to being named "American Idol."
Now she has won over critics known for being even tougher -- the New York theater crowd.
The High Point native received rave reviews Friday after opening on Broadway in the lead role of "The Color Purple."
The New York Times' Charles Isherwood called Fantasia "so terrific that this earnest but mechanical musical is more effective and affecting than it was when it yawned open a year and a half ago at the Broadway Theater."
Associated Press drama critic Michael Kuchwara was equally effusive, saying Fantasia's portrayal of Celie gives the production "new heart, soul and star power."
"And Fantasia knows how to let loose, particularly in her final number of affirmation, 'I'm Here.' It pretty much brings down the house, earning cheers and a few tears," Kuchwara wrote.
Joe Dziemianowicz, in his review for the New York Daily News, said that "Fantasia gives such a powerful performance in her Broadway debut that it's almost, to borrow a lyric from the show, 'too beautiful for words.' "
"The Color Purple," based on the Alice Walker novel, opened on Broadway in 2005. The show's main producer is Oprah Winfrey, who made her film debut playing Sofia in Steven Spielberg's 1985 film adaptation, which was shot in North Carolina.
The actress who originated the role of Celie on Broadway, the similarly single-named LaChanze, won a Tony Award for the part.
Since winning "American Idol's" third season, Fantasia has recorded two albums. But before opening on Broadway, her acting experience had been limited to a turn as Aretha Franklin on "American Dreams," a voice performance on "The Simpsons" and playing herself in the Lifetime TV movie "The Fantasia Barrino Story: Life Is Not a Fairy Tale."
She is the first "Idol" winner to appear on Broadway, though other contestants from the show have gone on to the stage. Season 3 runner-up Diana Degarmo was in "Hairspray" on Broadway.
Another Season 3 finalist, Jennifer Hudson, won an Oscar this year for her role in the film version of the Broadway musical "Dreamgirls."
Fantasia, 22, is scheduled to be in "The Color Purple" through October.
Friday, May 18, 2007
| Cowell: Grease is the Worst |
May 18, 2007
By Sara Nathan for The Sun
Simon Cowell has confessed his reality show Grease Is The Word is a FLOP.
The telly bully’s ITV1 talent series is being trounced by BBC1’s Any Dream Will Do.
Critics have slammed Grease for being too much like X Factor.
And Cowell, 47, admitted: “Grease Is The Word is not going as well as I had hoped.
“It has been slaughtered by the critics - and rightly so.” Grease, which aims to find a new Sandy and Danny to star in the musical in London’s West End, is pulling in around four million viewers.
Meanwhile Any Dream — hunting a star for Joseph And His Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat — is riding high on six million viewers.
Cowell, speaking to Broadcast magazine, said of Grease: “It is far too similar to our other formats.”
He said of reality shows: “There is a lot of rubbish out there.” He reckons only three will survive — his X Factor and Talent, plus the Beeb’s Strictly Come Dancing.
Last night Cowell told The Sun: “Initially I was not crazy about the show, but by episode three I got into it. I think the judges are great and I’ve warmed to the talent.”
A Grease spokeswoman said: “We’re really proud of our show.”
| Dickinson Wants to Bed Cowell |
May 17, 2007
By WENN for UK Yahoo
Former supermodel Janice Dickinson is in awe of music mogul Simon Cowell and would jump into bed with him if she was given the chance.
Dickinson describes the X Factor judge Cowell as her ideal man.
She says, "I can compete with Simon because we're both authorities in our industry. I like Simon. I'd sleep with him in a heartbeat, he's sexy."
Thursday, May 17, 2007
| Cowell's £100m Pay Day |
May 17, 2007
By Lucretia Munro for The Daily Mail
Simon Cowell has doubled his already vast fortune after selling his latest television show around the world.
Cowell, 47, the creator of the X-Factor, is now worth around £200 million.
Versions of his new hit, America’s Got Talent, will air in 40 countries worldwide, such as Russia, Greece, Israel, and Kazakhstan.
The show features singers, dancers, comedians, magicians and other unique acts, competing for a cash prize.
In the British version, which starts next month, the judges are Amanda Holden, Piers Morgan and Cowell himself.
The winner will take £100,000 and perform for the Queen at this year’s Royal Variety show.
The American show was the NBC network’s top-rating programme of 2006 and an Australian version, which starred Dannii Minogue as a judge, shot to number one when it aired on Channel 7.
Cowell’s spokesman said: "He’s got the X-factor, he knows exactly what people want and aren’t getting. Whether it’s music or television, he has had the most amazing success by backing his own judgment."
The man himself has spoken of his drive for success in the past, saying: "I have an absolute hatred of losing.
"It goes back to being a kid when you’re losing at Monopoly and you throw the board up in the air. It’s irrelevant what the prize is, I just want to beat the competition."
Last year, Cowell signed a three-year deal with ITV worth £20 million, which tied him into the X-Factor until 2009.
He also pockets £13 million a series for his appearance as a judge on American Idol.
In 2006 another of his competition shows, American Inventor, debuted in the US.
Cowell is also executive producer on Grease is the Word for ITV.
His earnings are further boosted by his role as producer on records released by the XFactor winners.
In addition, he produces records released by winners of American Idol, such as Kelly Clarkson’s version of A Moment Like This, which topped the charts in 2002.
Cowell, who has been with his girlfriend Teri Seymour for four years, will continue to receive royalties from all singles that he produces as a result of the X-Factor and American Idol.
His bank balance also benefited from the sale of his production company SyCo to Sony last year.
He has not always had the midas touch, however. During the eighties, Cowell declared himself bankrupt after his record label folded, and was forced to move back in with his parents.
But he claims financial ruin was exciting because it meant he could start again. He said: "The getting there is more fun than being there."
Britain’s Got Talent will be shown on ITV on June 14.
| Simon Cowell's Cheeky Texts |
May 16, 2007
By Staff Writers for Life Style Extra
Simon Cowell sends 'Grease Is the Word' judge Sinitta cheeky texts about her outfits.
The couple dated on and off for 18 years and the 80s pop singer still wears outrageous outfits just to impress the 'X factor' judge.
Sinitta told Britain's Closer magazine: "When I dated Simon I'd dress to amuse him. If we went on holiday I'd wear a different coloured hat each day.
"Guys take you for granted after a while, so I made sure he'd notice me! He told me, 'I always look forward to seeing what you're wearing' and I've remembered that.
"Simon's in Los Angeles at the moment, but he gets sent copies of the show and he always texts me about my outfits. I can imagine his smirk when he sees what I've got on!"
The 'So Macho' singer also revealed one of the outfits she wears on the show she stole from Kylie Minogue.
She said: "We toured Japan in about 1990 and were given kimonos.
"I liked Kylies better so I took hers and left her mine!"
| Boss Tops Sexy League |
May 17, 2007
By Staff Writers for The Daily Record
Mourinho could only manage second place in the Premiership but he has topped the league of Britain's sexiest bosses.
Second place went to chef Gordon Ramsay and third to X Factor Mr Nasty Simon Cowell.
Clydebank-born entrepreneur and star of Dragon's Den Duncan Bannatyne was placed eighth, with Chancellor Gordon Brown ninth.
But the magazine poll wasn't good news for Brown, with Tory leader David Cameron taking seventh place.
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
| Cowell Tries to Reunite Spice Girls |
May 15, 2007
By Staff Writers for What's on TV
Simon Cowell is reportedly trying to line up the Spice Girls for a TV documentary to coincide with a Take That-style comeback.
The pop mogul has apparently offered the girls a multi-million pound deal for a fly-on-the-wall show that will chart their lives since 2001 and follow preparations for a rumoured charity gig in the summer, according to the Daily Express.
A source at Simon's company Syco told the paper: "Simon knows and sees Victoria the most and they've spoken about doing a two-hour documentary. She was really keen and has been speaking to the girls about it."
But not all the Spices are so pleased about the idea of going back on tour, like the re-formed boyband Take That.
"While Geri Halliwell, Mel B, Emma Bunton and Victoria are all really keen, they're having a hard time convincing Mel C, who isn't sure she wants to be on the road touring again," revealed another insider.
"[The documentary] will be similar to the Take That show, which subsequently led to a sell-out arena tour, hit comeback album and number one singles.
"They've seen a lot of each other recently, at Geri's daughters christening and David's birthday, and they discussed the offers they've had.
"They are keen to kick off any kind of a comeback with a bang - and that means the two-hour TV special."
| New Survey Finds Americans Like to Show Their True Age -- When Having Their ID Checked |
May 15, 2007
By Staff Writers for PR Newswire
If given the opportunity, whose ID would American adults most want to check -- media powerhouse Oprah Winfrey, Demi Moore's husband Ashton Kutcher or comedian Joan Rivers? Would adults rather have talk show maven Ellen Degeneres, television's hottest host Ryan Seacrest or longtime favorite Regis Philbin check their ID? These questions and more are answered in the latest survey assessing how American adults view the effectiveness of ID checking when it comes to preventing underage drinking.
The survey, conducted by The Nielsen Company on behalf of Anheuser-Busch, found broad public support for ID checking. Nearly all American adults (95 percent) believe that having their ID checked may be a little inconvenient, but believe it is worth it to help reduce underage drinking. In fact, 90 percent of respondents actually appreciate having someone check their ID, viewing the procedure as a clear indication that the bar, restaurant or retailer is firmly committed to preventing sales of alcohol to minors. In addition, 81 percent of adults have seen someone get carded while purchasing alcohol, and 98 percent of 21-29 year olds report being carded.
"Checking IDs is one of the keys to keeping alcohol out of the hands of minors. Simply put, if teens can't get alcohol, they can't drink it, and the survey reflects that America's retailers are doing their part, and that American adults fully embrace this concept -- whether they are doing the checking, or being checked," says John Kaestner, vice president of Consumer Affairs for Anheuser-Busch Cos. "Ensuring that IDs are checked and authentic is especially important during this time of year when teens are celebrating graduation and may attempt to purchase alcohol for the festivities."
The survey also found that 94 percent of respondents agree that people who sell alcohol should be trained to spot fake IDs. Anheuser-Busch and its 600 wholesalers nationwide provide servers and sellers of alcohol with tools to help them effectively identify patrons of legal purchase age. Since 1990, the company and its wholesalers have provided 63 million wristbands and 1.2 million "We I.D." cards to servers and sellers of alcohol beverages to help keep these products out of the hands of minors.
These efforts, coupled with strong parental involvement, effective law enforcement and increased awareness about the consequences of illegal underage drinking, are working. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 83 percent of 12-17 year olds do not drink. In addition, the federally funded University of Michigan's "Monitoring the Future" study found the percentage of high-school seniors who reported having a drink in the last 30 days is at the lowest level since tracking began in 1975, 9 percent lower in 2006 than in 2000 and down 35 percent since 1982. The lighter side of the survey also reveals:
-- Americans would most like to check the ID of Joan Rivers (26 percent)
to learn her true age, followed by Oprah Winfrey (23 percent), Simon
Cowell (16 percent) and Ashton Kutcher (15 percent).
-- Adults would most like to have their ID checked by Ellen Degeneres (32
percent) when purchasing alcohol, followed by Kelly Ripa (24 percent),
Tyra Banks (22 percent) and Ann Curry (9 percent).
-- Among male celebrities, adults would like Regis Philbin (29 percent)
to check their ID when purchasing alcohol, over Conan O'Brien (21
percent), Ryan Seacrest (19 percent) and Al Roker (18 percent).
The 2007 ID-Checking Survey results are based on 1,044 telephone interviews with persons 21 or older and are projectable to the Continental US population aged 21 or older. The Nielsen Company, which conducted the research, is the leading market research company, with recognized brands in
marketing information (ACNielsen), media information (Nielsen Media Research), business publications (Billboard, The Hollywood Reporter, Adweek), trade shows and the newspaper sector (Scarborough Research).
For a quarter century, Anheuser-Busch and its nationwide network of 600 independent wholesalers have led the alcohol beverage industry in promoting responsibility and respect for the law, investing more than a half-billion dollars in alcohol awareness and education programs and partnerships. In 2007, for the fourth year in a row, the company ranked first in the beverage industry for social responsibility in FORTUNE magazine's "America's Most Admired Companies" and "Global Most Admired Companies."
More information about Anheuser-Busch's responsible drinking programs is available at http://www.beeresponsible.com . The full survey results are available at http://www.alcoholstats.com .
Monday, May 14, 2007
| Sinitta Left Fuming at Shoe Snub |
May 13, 2007
By Melanie Swan for The People
Grease judge Sinitta threw a diva strop after Simon Cowell refused her a £100,000 clothes allowance for the show.
The former '80s pop princess, who once dated the ITV1 show producer Cowell, 48, wanted to appear in Jimmy Choo shoes and Gucci gear.
But instead she's had to bring her own outfits.
An insider revealed: "She wanted to make sure she dazzled viewers.
"She had a whole range of dream designers she wanted to wear.
"It's been a while since she's had a leading role on a UK show and wanted to dress to impress.
"She was gutted when Simon turned her down."
To add insult to injury critics have branded the 41-year-old's choice of clothes, including a fur coat and bikini, 'dated'.
Rival show host Graham Norton, 48, from BBC's Any Dream Will Do, scoffed: "I think they've been in a wardrobe since 1982."
| Don't Be Cruel |
May 13, 2007
By Ronnie Gill for Newsday
Ed McMahon says that he's a fan of "American Idol," but added that he's not a fan of the negative vein the show can take, particularly from its head judge.
The former "Star Search" host told the Chicago Tribune, "I just hate the cruelty ... Simon Cowell and how he tears people apart. I don't approve of that. And if you put somebody on the show, they ought to be qualified to be on the show. It's supposed to be a celebration of good talent."
| Cowell And Fuller Turn Down Michael Jackson |
May 14, 2007
By Chris Taylor for Entertainment Wise
No help for his pop comeback...
Michael Jackson’s hopes for his pop comeback have been dealt a blow after both Simon Cowell and Simon Fuller turned the star down.
Jackson is desperate to put his troubles behind him and relaunch his pop career and has had several meetings with ex-Spice Girls manager Simon Fuller in the hope of harnessing his substantial industry clout.
However, the 19 Management boss has told Michael, ‘Thanks, but no thanks’ – a response matched by American Idol judge Simon Cowell.
A source tells The Sun, “Both Simons are busy with TV and music projects so are unable to commit to him.”
Poor old Jacko…
| Cowell's Loose Lips Veering Off-script: American Idol Svengali Lands in Some Hot Water |
May 14, 2007
By Rob McKenzie for The National Post
Back in January, when an American Idol press conference began 40 minutes late, most people on the scene assumed the delay was because of Paula Abdul. After all, she's the erratic one.
But when the session finally started and a TV critic asked what the problem had been, Abdul's fellow judge Simon Cowell stepped in to reply: "It was my fault. I flew in late from London, so I apologize..."
Read more at the link above!
| Cowell Loses His Lustre to Laurie |
May 13, 2007
By Andrew Gumbel for The Independent
Simon Cowell is still the top dog on American television, but he may be losing his touch. The acerbic host and chief critic on the wildly popular talent show American Idol - an offshoot of the UK original, Pop Idol - has lost around three million viewers over the past year.
Meanwhile, another Brit, Hugh Laurie, who follows him on the air on Wednesday nights in the medical melodrama House, is one of the few TV stars in the US who is holding his own.
May is when US advertisers pay especially close attention to ratings figures on the small screen. By common consent, it has been a disastrous season for all the networks - prime-time viewership is down by more than 2.5 million over the past two months. Nobody can quite fathom why.
American Idol remains a a must-watch for millions of Americans - 23.7 million, according to last week's audience figures - but it is clearly losing the lustre it enjoyed in its early seasons.
The show is now down to its final contestants, and normally the entire country would be abuzz about who will emerge as the eventual winner. Perhaps because the format is getting tired, or because this year's contestants are uninspiring, that isn't happening to quite the same extent.
House's success is a bright spot in what TV industry analysts are calling the worst spring in memory.
| Reward for Return of British Girl Missing in Portugal |
May 14, 2007
By Staff Writers for The Lake County News-Sun and Phillip Whiteside for News of the World
Stars and business leaders have donated huge sums in an unprecedented show of support for the Find Maddie campaign — to make up the largest award in newspaper history.
Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling has pledged a major contribution to a $3 million reward fund for the safe return of a British girl who has gone missing in Portugal, a Sunday newspaper said.
The News of the World said Rowling had offered the single largest contribution to the fund started by the tabloid newspaper. It called Rowling's pledge "staggering," but said the author asked the amount be kept secret.
Madeleine McCann, 4, disappeared on May 2 after her parents left her, and her brother and sister, both aged 2, alone while they went to a restaurant at Praia da Luz, their vacation resort in Portugal's Algarve region. Portuguese police continue to search for her.
The newspaper said the amount Rowling offered was larger than the $495,000 pledge from Topshop owner Sir Philip Green.
Sir Richard Branson offered $198,000 and American Idol judge Simon Cowell promised $99,000. "I heard about the terrible situation here in LA and I hope she is found safe and sound." .
Rowling, 41, is one of Britain's richest people with an estimated fortune of $1 billion, thanks to the best-selling novels and films about her boy wizard.
Saturday, May 12, 2007
| Showbiz Needs More Cheryl Tweedys |
May 12, 2007
By Victoria Newton for The Sun
Showbiz needs more Cheryl Tweedys.
The Girls Aloud beauty jots down the names of celebs who have slagged her off and waits patiently to get her revenge.
Cheryl said: “I’ve got a hit list..."
But one celeb who escapes Cheryl’s acid tongue is Mr Nasty himself, Simon Cowell.
Despite Cowell calling her a “crap Geordie” and questioning her selection to Girls Aloud, she refuses to say a bad word about the influential media and music mogul...
| Ipod Generation Boosts Classical Music Radio Station by 500,000 Listeners |
May 10, 2007
By Paul Revoir for The Daily Mail
Britain's iPod generation is becoming hooked on classical music with new figures revealing a huge surge in youngsters listening to radio station Classic FM.
Driven by the success of film scores for blockbuster movies like Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter and determined efforts to sex-up the classical music industry, a section of Britain's youth appears to be tuning in to Mozart.
The surprising figures revealed in the latest set of radio results show half a million under 15s are now tuning in to Classic FM each week, overturning the conceived wisdom that classical music is something people predominantly turn to in older age.
Classic FM, which recently won the top award at Britain's radio oscars the Sony Radio Academy Awards last week, saw a massive 52 per cent increase in the number of under 15 listeners on the previous quarter.
This has been driven in part by a new breed of younger and sexier presenters such as Myleene Klass, Katie Derham and Lisa Duncombe on the station as well as celebrities like Simon Cowell, Richard E Grant, Sting, and even footballer Graeme Le Saux appearing on the station...
Friday, May 11, 2007
| Anthony Fedorov on Simon |
May 11 , 2007
By Katie Riegel for Broadway.com
Cowell's Scowl: A fan favorite on Idol both for his ballad-friendly tenor and for the touching story of how he managed to become a singer after a tracheotomy to repair a birth defect with his windpipe, Fedorov calls the show an amazing experience—even if, looking back, he doesn't like his performances. "
For some reason, I never connected with myself the way I usually do," he says of his fourth place finish. "When I got [to Hollywood] I became kind of lost. I didn't know who I was."
Interestingly, some post-elimination advice from notoriously caustic judge Simon Cowell got him back on track. "Cowell said to me, 'I want to commend you on a phenomenal job handling my crap. All I'm trying to do is be that person you'll meet pretty much every step of your way who's going to try and bring you down. If you can't handle me, you have no business being in this business. You have a phenomenal voice, but both you and I know you didn't choose the right songs. So what you need to do is die down for a while, get the right songs and then you'll be incredibly successful.'
I was sitting there thinking, 'Why is he telling me all this? I thought he hated my guts!'"
| The Key to Success for Lakisha |
May 10, 2007
By Mary Carole McCauley for The Baltimore Sun
"After the show, Simon told me that he was really proud of me and that I am going to have a successful career," she said, referring to a conversation with Simon Cowell, the famously acerbic judge.
When pressed to reveal Cowell's kissing technique -- the two famously smooched on a previous broadcast -- Jones said:
"He is a good kisser, and I would do it again. His lips were really soft and thin."
| "Idol" Judges Show Mercy for Paris |
May 10, 2007
By TMZ Staff for TMZ
While one judge is dishing it harsh to Ms. Hilton, the "American Idol" judges have nothin' but love for her.
Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson are the latest to wax on Hilton's upcoming trip to jail -- Simon telling cameras they "feel sorry for her" as Randy said the entire situation is "crazy dude, she's a good girl, she'll get it together." Way to go, dawg, with the jailhouse rockin'!
Cowell even said he'd visit the pokey-bound heiress when she gets locked up -- sounds like a great "Inmate Idol" opportunity!
Thursday, May 10, 2007
| Simon's Mom Spills Mr. Mean's Secrets! |
May 8, 2007
By Staff Writers for Extra TV
He’s the judge known for his heart of stone, but “Extra” knows that sinister Simon has a soft side – and we have proof!
Simon’s queen mum, Julie Cowell, spilled all the secrets about her famous son.
Julie, who is 81 years young, can still pull her weight with her naughty son. When Simon walked onstage to "American Idol" with gum in his mouth, Julie did what any mother would do – yell!
“He walked out and I thought, ‘I can’t believe he’s chewing gum,’” Julie said. “And I went, ‘Simon!’ It was like he was three years old and did it immediately.”
So what really happens when Mr. Nasty shows his mean side? Julie calls him up on the phone!
“Mother still has a go,” Julie insisted.
It turns out the King of Cruel is really the Prince of Charm…especially around Mother’s Day.
“I had a new car from him a few weeks ago, which he insisted on buying me, so I’ll take that as a Mother’s Day present,” Julie said.
As for anything else she needs from her famous son…how about a marriage?
Julie said she wants Simon to marry “Extra’s” own Terri Seymour!
Here’s to hoping Mum gets her wish!
Watch the video of Simon's mum (Flash) at the link above.
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
| Simon and I Are Pals Now, But He Still Thinks That I Would Have Sold More Records with Him |
May 9, 2007
By Samantha Booth for The Daily Record
When Pop Idol runner-up Darius Danesh bumps into Simon Cowell nowadays, there is no animosity between the pair who clashed on the reality TV show.
Infamously sharp-tongued Cowell branded Darius 'corny' and the Scots hopeful returned the insult when he bravely rejected the multi- millionaire record producer's offer of a million-pound contract.
Instead, Darius sent a track he had written himself to legendary U2 producer Steve Lillywhite in the hope of securing a deal on his own terms.
But when Darius and Simon met up a few weeks ago in Los Angeles they had a good laugh about what went on during Pop Idol.
Darius said: "I met Simon recently in LA and we did have a wee laugh about those days. He is a wonderful man and I think he is given some flak even he doesn't deserve.
"For all the cutting remarks he sometimes makes, Simon is a very honest man and I'm now glad to be able to call him a friend.
"He has told me I have done well since the Pop Idol days and has forgiven me for turning down the record contract he offered me after the show.
"At one dinner we attended together he even admitted to me he never thought Colour blind would be a hit.
"But, being Simon, he couldn't quite resist having the last word. As he was leaving he came up to me and said he still thought I would have sold more records if I had signed with him.
"That's just him though, he's such a character and it's great to be able to hang out with him now in such different circumstances."
Nobody, not even Cowell, can doubt Glasgow boy Darius's staying power.
After being ridiculed by the nation and a panel of judges on Popstars in 2001 he defiantly declared he wouldn't give up his hopes of a career in music.
Even if there did seem to be universal agreement that his singing was cheesy, his ponytail and goatee were sleazy and his plea for his fellow contestants to feel the "love in the room" was vomit-inducing. In fact, the hopeful even boldly declared he would have aNo.1 single and hit album no matter what they thought.
And just a year later he nearly proved them all wrong when he struggled through to the semi-finals on Pop Idol despite Simon's incessant slagging.
He was only beaten into third place by the huge popularity of Will Young and Gareth Gates.
Then in the summer of 2003 Darius's unswerving belief finally paid off when his first self-penned single Colourblind beat Britney Spears and George Michael to reach the top of the charts and his first album Dive went platinum.
He said: "One of the most wonderful things about being Scottish is you are taught from an early age that if you get knocked down you just stand up, brush yourself down and have another go. There is a certain tenacity which comes from being Scottish that really doesn't exist in any other country I have been to.
"I feel very proud of that and am glad it has served me in my career in such a difficult business."
However, just as he was becoming established as a star, Darius' dad Booth was diagnosed with cancer.
IT WAS a bleak period for the singer but his dad battled the disease with the same fortitude that kept his son striving for success and has now made a full recovery.
Darius said: "My dad really is in flying form now.
"He is in full health and is putting the finishing touches to a book he was inspired to write when he recovered from what was said to be terminal cancer.
"In reality we did lose him twice when his heart stopped on two separate occasions. And when I wrote the song Live Twice I had no idea he was going to get better so it was an incredibly tough time.
"Now, though, he has a clean bill of health and a lot of that has to do with his own positive thinking. He never believed his diagnosis was going to be the end.
"He really is an inspiration to me and is the man I respect most in the world.
"If anything goes wrong now I just take a little pause and remember how lucky I am to get a second chance to have a dad.
"It really has put my life into perspective and changed the way I view everything from my career to world events.
"I now know how important family is and how crucial it is to be happy and healthy."
Now 26, Darius seems to be happier than ever. He has homes in London and Los Angeles and says he is madly in love with his long- term girlfriend, actress Natasha Henstridge.
The singer said: "Our relationship is fantastic and I am so lucky to be very much in love."
His career is also flying high once again.
Last year he became the youngest performer to take on the role of Billy Flynn in the West End production of Chicago.
He is also in the middle of writing his third album and about to star as Sky Masterton in the UK tour of musical smash hit Guys And Dolls which kicks off at the Edinburgh Playhouse next month.
He said: "I am in rehearsals for Guys And Dolls at the moment and loving it because the stakes are so high.
"The dancing is incredibly full on. In fact the whole show is like a rollercoaster ride of new acting theory, new choreography and all kinds of things I have never done before.
"It is a real challenge to me as a performer and there is definitely no room for mistakes because some of the moves are so difficult they have to be done perfectly.
"But it never feels like work because it is always so exciting and so much fun."
By taking on the role of Sky Masterton, Darius is following in the footsteps of fellow Scot Ewan McGregor.
But the former reality TV star finds that prospect thrilling rather than daunting.
He said: "I was very lucky to see Ewan perform twice in Guys And Dolls and he filled the role with such incredible energy and such a definable character that I was filled with enthusiasm.
"I felt inspired as a performer which I then took back to Chicago with me. But I also thought I would love to have a go at playing Sky and now I am it's a huge honour.
"It is such a riotous cocktail of acting, singing and dancing challenges it must be one of the most exciting roles a performer can tackle."
And of course one of the best things for Darius about kicking off the tour at the Edinburgh Playhouse is that he is not only back in his beloved Scotland, he is also back in his favourite venue.
He said: "These days I live wherever I am but my heart is always in Scotland. I just spent a day at home and it was the best day of my year so far.
"There is no feeling like it and the moment I land at Glasgow Airport I start to relax because it is where I feel at home.
"But I am also really excited about being back at the Playhouse because it honestly is my favourite venue.
"Not only have I played there twice before as a performer, I remember seeing Tracy Chapman there as a teenager and felt like I was transported to another world."
Guys And Dolls will be at Edinburgh Playhouse between Tuesday, June 12, and Saturday, June 23, 2007.
Tuesday, May 08, 2007
| Show-off Simon Cowell Can't Resist Taking His Top Off |
May 8, 2007
By Staff Writers for Daily Mail
Be sure to check out the pics of Simon and his car at the link above!
Simon Cowell isn't one for subtlety.
The American Idol judge made a grand entrance in a classic racing green sports car -- with the top off of course -- at The Ivy restaurant in Beverly Hills.
The reality TV giant was clearly intent being seen -- the ritzy establishment is a well-known Hollywood haunt that is constantly swarming with paparazzi.
The expensive wheels are certainly fitting: cash flash Cowell was recently named the fastest rising individual on The Sunday Times Rich List, Cowell, with an estimated worth of £100 million.
Cowell, often referred to as television's Mr Nasty, may have won attention that day, but he doesn't always do so well when it comes to scoring affection.
Welsh singer Charlotte Church has stepped up as his latest critic, saying she would do a better job of being a judge on X-Factor than Cowell, or his fellow judges.
Church said: "I've got enormous respect for Simon Cowell, Sharon Osbourne and Louis Walsh, but they just don't know the ins and outs of a voice or music."
"When I'm watching the show I think: 'You haven't got a clue what you're on about -- I should be on there!"
That's just the sort of comment that would get Cowell's engine fired up -- we can feel a celebrity war coming on.
Monday, May 07, 2007
| Rock 'n Row for Ex-EastEnders |
May 05, 2007
By Sara Nathan for The Sun
Ex-Eastenders stars Jessie Wallace and Shane Richie are in line to be reunited in the new ITV1 drama Rock Rivals.
The pair, who played bickering Kat and Alfie Moon in the BBC1 soap, are set to be cast as another warring couple.
Both are reading scripts for the show this weekend — and are TV bosses’ top choices for the roles.
Rock Rivals features the fiery relationship between two married judges on an X Factor-style telly talent show. They fall out and launch rival bands after the husband admits to an affair with his assistant.
The couple are based on Sharon Osbourne and Simon Cowell. And Cowell is working on the new drama with producers Shed — who also made Footballers’ Wives.
If Jessie, 35, and Shane, 43, decide to take up the starring roles it will be the first time they have worked together since quitting EastEnders in November 2005.
The last time they were seen together on screen was on Christmas Day 2005, when Kat and Alfie reunited before driving away from Albert Square together.
Jessie has since appeared in BBC1’s drama Class Apart and plays Edwardian music hall legend Marie Lloyd in a new BBC drama.
Shane is starring in a forthcoming ITV1 drama The Good Samaritan.
A show source said: “It would be fantastic to get Shane and Jessie together again. They have an amazing on-screen chemistry and would be just perfect for these roles.”
TV Biz told in November how Shane was keen to be reunited with Jessie. He said: “We’ve spoken of working with each other again. A spin-off would be great.”
| Britney Pal New Louis |
May 07, 2007
By Graham Brough and Nicola Methven for The Mirror
£250k deal for Grease judge Brian
Grease Is The Word's camp judge Brian Friedman will replace sacked panellist Louis Walsh on The X Factor in a £250,000 deal.
The shaven-headed US choreographer -- who claims he inspired best pal Britney Spears to ditch her hair -- impressed Simon Cowell with his bitchy quips on the theatre talent search.
He had been favourite to win the prized TV role and beat off a number of rivals, including 70s singer Donny Osmond.
Brian, 29, will join Cowell, Sharon Osbourne and newcomer Dannii Minogue on the judging panel when The X Factor returns to ITV1 in August.
And children will feature on the show for the first time.
A TV insider said: "As there will be a kids category, it makes sense to have a younger judge. Simon has been really impressed with his performance on Grease -- Brian is bitchy and proud of it."
The American recently gushed: "I honestly love everything Simon says."
But he angered Grease viewers after suggesting a couple's performance was "like British food -- bland, tasteless and boring".
He also bragged that his countrymen were better movers, claiming: "British men can't dance."
Brian lives with his two dogs and two parrots in LA but grew up in Arizona. At 16, he set up his own dance studio.
He went on to choreograph Britney, Beyonce, Pink, Prince, Usher and other stars. The dancer was also Christopher Walken's double in the Fatboy Slim video for Weapon of Choice.
After US show So You Think You Can Dance? made him famous, he shaved his hair to avoid being recognised.
When Britney did the same following rehab, he said: "I've heard I was her inspiration. It was a bold decision but one of the best I've made. I felt free."
An X Factor spokeswoman said last night: "We cannot announce the full line-up yet."
Grease had 3.9million viewers on Saturday -- but was beaten again by BBC1's Any Dream Will Do with 5.5million.
Sunday, May 06, 2007
| Holden Asked for Apology from Piers Morgan |
May 5, 2007
By Daniel Kilkelly for Digital Spy
Amanda Holden requested an apology from Britain's Got Talent co-star Piers Morgan after signing up for the show.
The Wild At Heart actress was unhappy about "vindictive" reports written about her in the Daily Mirror while Piers was editor, which contributed towards her break-up with TV host Les Dennis.
"As soon as I met Piers, I made him apologise to me," she explained during an interview with Parkinson. "I first of all said, 'You hounded me for most of your career, well three years of my life', when he was editor of the Daily Mirror, and that it was unnecessary and vindictive.
"He apologised, quite genuinely I felt until then he said, 'Of course you owe me your happiness Amanda because if it wasn't for me you wouldn't be happily engaged with a new baby!'"
Asked what she thought about Simon Cowell, who is a judge and executive producer of the show, Amanda replied: "He is a pussy cat. I have never seen someone with such a huge following and obviously so successful as a man, as he is at the moment, who has so much time for everybody."
Saturday, May 05, 2007
| Simon Cowell's Most Vicious American Idol Insults |
May 3, 2007
By Staff Writers for The Times Online
Is he a spiteful, malicious little man with ludicrously white teeth? Or is he a great wit who saves America’s top-rated show from becoming an all-out love-in?
Opinions on American Idol judge Simon Cowell vary wildly, but whether you revel in his honesty or despise his attitude, the man’s caustic wit deserves further study.
Here, we relive 20 of Cowell's finest comments, dished out to contestants, relatives and even dear old Bob Dylan.
1. “You should sue your singing teacher”
2. “I presume there was no mirror in your dressing room tonight."
3. “The end of the animal trade would leave more time to trap or beat to death pop star wannabes”
4. At age 4: "Mum, you look like a poodle"
5. On Bob Dylan: 'A singing poet? It just bores me to tears.'
6. “Shave off your beard and wear a dress. I think you’d be a great female impersonator”
7. "Did you really believe you could become the American Idol? Well, then, you're deaf."
8. "You have just invented a new form of torture"
9. "If you had lived 2,000 years ago and sung like that, I think they would have stoned you."
10. "The look, it was like something out of the Addams Family."
11. "You have the personality of a handle.”
12. "I’m tempted to ask if you sang that the night before your wife left you."
13. "You look like one of those creatures that live in the jungle with those massive eyes."
14. "What do you think we are looking for – a two-year-old who can't sing?"
15. "You were having fun. I'm not sure how much fun everyone at home was having."
16. "You came across as a background singer for a background singer."
17.. "You sounded like Cher after she's been to the dentist."
18. “Can I ask you a question? Do you and your girlfriend sing together at home? Have the police ever called?"
19. "You are fabulous but it was the singing that was slightly off- putting."
20. Simon: "What normally happens when you sing in public, Deborah?"
Deborah: "I've had a few people cry."
Simon: "I can believe that."
Comments on Simon's comments from The Times' readers:
Simon is a little 7-year-old boy. I love him and I Think he needs a snack and sippy cup up there. He is smart, Quick witted and funny. Lets enjoy him while we have him. He is a chain smoker. His dad died if a sudden heart attack and mom had Cancer. He a relentless workaholic and his true fans and loved ones worry about him. I rub that cutie pies feet anyime to calm his nerves.
Cheryl, BOSTON, MA
the show would be a complete bore without Simon. He is the
reason I watch and so do my friends.
susan, phila, pa, usa
Brilliant. Personal favourites from the list above are 16 and 17
Alan, Cher's dentist,
Simon says what the rest of us think (if we had such a quick mind) but due to being politically correct we do not say it. Plus in these days of political correctness, only Simon speaks his mind with crystal clearness.
Without Simon, there would be no show
M.Murray, London, England
awesome work Simon. Keep it up. lets have more of this and less of the sicophantic nonsense that most judges are happy to spool
simon mawdsley, london,
when he said that the little girl crying in the audience said it all
jerome, arlington, texas
Thursday, May 03, 2007
| Tony Bennett Thinks ‘Idol’ Is too Cruel |
May 3, 2007
By Jeannette Walls for MSNBC
Tony Bennett is not a fan of “American Idol” — and the legendary crooner says he has had angry words with Simon Cowell about it.
The “I Left My Heart in San Francisco” singer told the U.K. edition of Time Out that his appearance on the show left him disgusted by how the show’s hopefuls are put through a wringer — and then left out to dry.
“I had it out with Simon (Cowell) when I met him and suggested that he should open up tiny clubs across the countries so the kids could break in and learn properly,” Bennett told the mag. “He said, ‘Oh I haven’t got time for that, I’m too busy making money!’”
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
| Is Ryan Seacrest Too Rude for ‘Idol’? |
April 30, 2007
By Gael Fashingbauer Cooper and Andy Dehnart for MSNBC
Q: Why haven’t the producers of "American Idol" done anything about Ryan Seacrest? He is very rude and continually tries to get the contestants to insult Simon Cowell. Simon is very critical in judging, but that’s his job, and he is without a doubt the most qualified person on the show Ryan Seacrest is obnoxious and could easily be replaced and should be as he tries to stir up trouble all of the time.
—GailA: Andy says: The producers haven’t done anything because Simon Cowell and Ryan Seacrest’s conflict equals ratings — especially on a season like this one, which is otherwise sort of dull.
You may find him obnoxious, but as other, less-skilled reality show hosts have demonstrated, hosting it very difficult, and Ryan does his job masterfully. Plus, it’s his job to engage with the judges, especially Simon.
That banter does cross the line sometimes, however. During the second season, Ryan said in an interview that FOX did ask them to stop their homophobic taunting of one another, as they each regularly suggested that the other is gay, as if there’s something wrong with that. Ryan told Entertainment Weekly back then that the jokes were supposed to “Break stereotypes” but were “never meant to be mean-spirited.” Of course, that hasn’t gone away; both this season and last, the they haven’t been subtle with their insinuations that the other isn’t straight.
In any case, the two are friends off-camera, so the taunting isn’t because the two don’t like one another. Their on-screen banter works to cement Simon’s role as the antagonist on the show. And that kind of conflict equals drama that is a large part of why millions of people tune in week after week.
Gael says: Seacrest has a thankless job, and although I roll my eyes at his cheesy banter with Simon Cowell, overall, I think he does a good job. I don't know that asking the contestants what they thought of Cowell's criticism equals trying to get them to insult him. Most of the singers keep their cool, even after they've been dogged, and respond maturely. When they don't, sure, that makes for a lively scene.
Very few reality-show hosts are universally beloved by viewers. I'd say the only one our readers seem to adore is Phil Keoghan of "The Amazing Race." Don't get me started on the nasty mail we used to get about Caroline Rhea when she hosted "The Biggest Loser." Most people felt that she shouldn't be hosting a weight-loss show when she herself could stand to drop a few pounds. Those people will get their wish, as we previously reported, Rhea has been replaced by soap star Alison Sweeney.
| Il Divo: Simon Cowell Doesn't Control Us |
April 30, 2007
By Andy Johnston for IC Wales
While their world tour is at the forefront of their minds, Urs reveals they have also been thinking about the upcoming fourth album. Their albums are normally released in November every year – can fans expect the same this year?
"We have been thinking about it a lot. We’ve released four albums, three DVDs and different combinations in almost two years, and gone around the world," Sebastien says.
"We just can’t keep up working at that pace, and it’s too much for the public to keep supporting us. We want them to give us a bit more time. We will very probably record it in the second half of this year, but it’s not going to come out until around Mother’s Day next year."
David adds: "We want our next album to be directional because the past three albums have been under the broad stroke of romance, and that can mean a lot of different things for a lot of people. We haven’t decided on what that direction is going to be, but we want it to be more of a concept like, Il Divo sings all Beatles or Tom Jones songs, something very directional."
But while Simon Cowell has a say, he won’t have full control over it.
"We will work as a team. He gives a list, then we give a list and we just find some songs that work and some that won’t. On Siempre, he was suggesting Everybody Hurts by REM, and we said no, it won’t work," Carlos explains.
Sebastien adds with a smile: "The reason why Simon has chosen us is because we have between 10 to 15, or (looks over at Carlos) 50 years of experience. He is very trustful of us, especially since he has got to know us. He has no control."
| Osbourne + Morgan Fall Out on US Talent Show |
May 1, 2007
By Staff Writers for Contact Music
Things aren't going well behind the scenes on Simon Cowell's US TV show America's Got Talent - because British judges Sharon Osbourne and Piers Morgan can't get along.
Cowell admits he invited his pal from British talent show The X Factor to replace embattled RnB star Brandy for the second series of his hit reality TV contest because he knew she'd happily tackle the outspoken tabloid journalist.
Cowell says: "He is actually very annoying and somebody has to tell him that."
And Morgan reveals: "She keeps walking off the set in fury, calling me disgusting."
| Another Idol Alum Sings for Cops |
April 30, 2007
By Gina Serpe for Yahoo News
With the exception of recent stories about the pot-growing predilections of Sanjaya Malakar's family, this season's crop of American Idol wannabes hasn't offered much in the way of headline-grabbing legal entanglements. Luckily for them, contestants from years past seem more than happy to pick up the slack.
Jessica Sierra, the 10th-place finisher on the Carrie Underwood-crowning fourth season of the show, was arrested in Tampa early Sunday on charges of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, cocaine possession and introduction of contraband into a detention facility.
Talk about a hat trick.
The 21-year-old aspiring pop star was busted at Tampa's Hyde Park Café after allegedly throwing a heavy cocktail glass at a fellow patron's head, opening a major gash above the eye of 28-year-old Wisam Hadad.
Tampa police said that's unclear whether Sierra knew Hadad or not.
A police spokeswoman described Sierra as belligerent and uncooperative upon being taken into custody, requiring officers to threaten the former reality star with leg restraints after she repeatedly kicked the car windows so hard that officers worried she would break the glass.
After her arrest on the battery charge, she was taken to the Orient Road Jail, at which point cops searched her belongings and allegedly found a small bag of cocaine in her possession. She reportedly denied that the drugs were hers, but also claimed that the purse in which the baggie had been found had not been out of her possession all day.
Sierra, who got the boot back in 2005 when her rendition of LeAnn Rimes' "On the Side of Angels" failed to impress either Simon Cowell or the American public, was released Sunday afternoon after posting $11,500 bail.
The incident is not Sierra's only brush with the law—although in her previous encounter, she was on the other side of it.
Last year, 61-year-old Daniel Robert Young was arrested for stalking Sierra via a series of harassing phone calls and unwarranted gifts and eventually showing up at her grandparents' Tampa home.
The case remains open pending a mental health clearance for Young.
Sierra, who was raised by her grandparents following the death of her mother, recorded a handful of songs in Nashville last year but has no plans to release an album. She's currently biding her time working at a Tampa Hooters.
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