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Sunday, August 31, 2008
| Cowell: All Women Over 40 Should Get Plastic Surgery |
August 26, 2008
By Lisa Stern for Make Me Heal
The not-so-popular “American Idol” judge isn’t doing much to improve his image. Simon Cowell isn’t very shy when it comes to the topic of plastic surgery. When asked about the prospect of going under the knife, Cowell was eager to express his disapproval of plastic surgery for men. ” I wouldn’t have plastic surgery, it looks ridiculous on guys,” said Cowell.
However, when it comes to women, it seems Cowell thinks differently.
“I’d make it compulsory for every woman over 40 [to have plastic surgery],” he quipped. Considering that Cowell has clearly dabbled in Botox procedures, as he is relatively wrinkle-free on his forehead, this stance doesn’t surprise us.
It seems like Simon Cowell has conflicting views on the role of plastic surgery for men, versus the role for women. Cowell has never been afraid to share his controversial viewpoints, as he’s known for being quite relentless on “American Idol.”
While we’re on the topic of Simon Cowell, let us judge him as a plastic surgery contestant. Simon has crows feet from the sides of his eyes and slight under eye bags, which he may want to correct with a blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) to get rid of the under eye bags and Restylane to fill in the wrinkles on the sides. Moreover, Simon seems to be afflicted with man boobs, which he cannot get rid of with just exercise as only going under the knife and having liposuction or male breast reduction can eliminate the breasts. Simon Cowell is apparently self-conscious about his man boobs and was embarrassed when a young girl did an artistic portrait of Simon Cowell with a pair of boobs. Cowell said, “What are those? What are those? Are you saying I have those? Are you? I’m not very happy.” In medical circles, man boobs are a medical condition known as gynecomastia, which is the development of abnormally large mammary glands in males.
We’ll keep an eye out for more on plastic surgery from Simon Cowell.
| Simon Cowell Encourages 'American Idol' Judges’ Catfights |
August 27, 2008
By fashiongossip for Fashioin.ie
Songwriter and producer Kara DiaGuardia was appointed the fourth judge Monday, August 25, for the upcoming season of American Idol. While her appointment may have corrected the gender imbalance in the judges’ panel, it has also stirred fears of catfights.
Simon Cowell declared that he welcomed catfights between newly appointed judge Kara DiaGuardia and a turf defending Paula Abdul during the first round auditions for American Idol in Manhattan New York on Tuesday, August 26.
He revealed: “I love catfights. I encourage them. It’s no fun if everyone gets along.”
He added: “I wouldn’t have recognized Kara by the way Paula described her. I was expecting someone maybe 50 years old, about 180 lbs., maybe a bit of gray hair.”
Simon Cowell’s wish, however, may not be easily fulfilled because Kara, speaking on Ryan Seacrest’s morning show on Monday, said she thinks highly of Paula who helped her advance her career.
Ryan Seacrest explained: “Let’s clear the air. Paula and Kara are great together. They used to live together and Paula helped her out years ago. Now the two of them are on the same team.”
During yesterday’s announcement, “American Idol” producer Simon Fuller described Kara as a ““smart, sassy lady,” who will “bring a new level of energy and excitement to the show.”
Simon Cowell described the new judge: “Kara has a good reputation of A, having hits; and B, having an opinion. And that’s a good combination. And she’s cute.”
On the judging technique of the new judge, Paula Abdul revealed: “I know Kara, and she speaks her mind — so she will be speaking her mind.”
Simon Cowell sniped: “That’s a nice way of saying she’s b**chy.” His remark elicits a “Whooooooooah!” from Jackson.
Kara DioGuardi reacted: “Then what are you if I’m b**chy?”
Simon responded: “Sincere.”
Meanwhile, Simon Cowell added that they hadn’t fully decided how ties will be broken in the audition process. In past seasons, two out of three judges had to agree to advance aspiring pop stars to the Hollywood round.
| Walsh: Cowell Has "Moved on" from Dannii |
August 27, 2008
By Simon Reynoldser for Digital Spy
X Factor judge Louis Walsh has stated that Simon Cowell has "moved on" from Dannii Minogue.
Walsh, who recently confessed that he was unsure about his future on the talent show, told Heat that Cowell was more interested in creating chemistry with new panel member Cheryl Cole than building on his relationship with Minogue.
"He definitely flirted with Dannii throughout last year's series," he explained. "But he seems to have moved on. He's flirting with Cheryl this year."
Walsh added that Cowell viewed Cole as a "more attractive" model: "Yes, you might say that. He's definitely paying attention to Cheryl now, not Dannii."
| Julia Roberts has the 'Most Genuine' Smile; Posh Spice the Worst Fake one |
August 26, 2008
By Staff Writers for Britain News
Hollywood actress Julia Roberts has the 'Most Genuine Smile', according to a new poll.
While Victoria Beckham was voted as having the Worst Fake Smile.
The stunner held off her fellow Ocean's 11 co-star George Clooney, who came third, which asked 3,000 people and was commissioned by the online bank Smile.
The 'X Factor' judge Simon Cowell came second.
The other best smiles were that of TV character 'Ugly Betty' played by America Ferrera as well as the mysterious smile of Leonardo da Vinci's 'Mona Lisa'.
Beckham piped the United States president, George Bush, to the top spot of having the Worst Fake Smile.
Pop star Britney Spears was recorded as having the third-worst forced smile.
The former Prime Minister Tony Blair managed to creep into the top five worst fake smiles, coming fourth ahead of Motown superstar Diana Ross.
"There are many different kinds of smiles. But the 'true', genuine, spontaneous smile is one where the mouth spreads in a relaxed way across the face and the eyes sparkle or soften, depending on the context and meaning of the smile. False smiles involve only the mouth," The Scotsman quoted Donna Dawson, a psychologist, as saying.
"If you were to cover up the mouth of a 'false smile' in a photograph, you would see that the eyes appear to be dead and expressionless," Dawson added.
| Just Waiting for Simon to Snap |
August 30, 2008
By Tony Parsons for The MIrror
For all the pre-season talk about Dannii Minogue versus Cheryl Cole, and for all the current controversy about fabricated sob stories, the really interesting thing about the new series of The X Factor has been the perfection of the Simon Cowell head-snap.
Simon has taken to sitting sideways so that he is often shot in profile. When something momentous happens -- when he senses true talent, or an insult to his intelligence -- his noble Julius Caesar-type head immediately snaps forward.
It's incredibly dramatic. The Cowell head-snap says, "I detect a tremor in The Force, Obi-Wan." It is impossible to witness the Cowell head-snap without your heart beating a little faster. Something great is about to happen. The birth of a new star, or the unveiling of a complete idiot.
And while it's true that the sob stories are getting a little out of hand, it is not as though they don't happen elsewhere.
In the American presidential election, it's not enough just to be the best candidate with a superb grasp of economics, foreign policy and social justice any more.
You have to be a Nam veteran who had his toenails pulled out by the Vietcong.
Or you have to be the underprivileged black child of a single mother from Hawaii.
If they have sob stories in the American presidential election, I really don't see how we can avoid them on The X Factor.
| Cheeky Simon Cowell Has Bust-up with Cheryl Cole |
August 30, 2008
By Mark Jefferiesm for The MIrror
In unscreened scenes, a female duo calling themselves TL sang About You Now by the Sugababes at the Manchester auditions.
But the two were far from pitch perfect.
Dannii Minogue asked if they thought they sounded like any other bands.
And TL -- Tafadzwa Gweza and Linda Zana-Villace -- replied by saying Girls Aloud.
Cowell said scathingly: "Yeah, yeah, I get that."
A seething Cheryl, 25, turned to him and said: "Don't be funny, Simon." Cowell looked across and added: "I'm not being funny."
Cheryl hit back: "Yes you are -- you are taking the absolute mick."
Boss Cowell, 48, then told the band they were not going to go through and they headed for the exit but he and Cheryl continued to bicker.
Cheryl tackled Simon again, saying: "That was a blatant cuss... you said you can see a resemblance." Turning to the other judges she added: "He's getting on my wick."
The incident was originally scheduled to be broadcast on tonight's show, along with footage of the pair backstage. But it was withdrawn yesterday -- with sources claiming it did not suit the programme's "family" image.
An insider said: "Cheryl was livid about Simon's comment because she is extremely proud of Girls Aloud. There was a real frosty atmosphere and she didn't hold back on giving Simon the hair-dryer treatment.
"It's just the start of the rows this year though, and once the judges have their own sections, things will get even more personal."
Tonight's show features an audition by 80-year-old Cyril Grant from Swaffham, Norfolk, in which he wows the judges with his version of Hey Good Looking -- despite never taking his eyes from the side of the stage.
And singer Russell Baines produces a papermache version of Cowell's head. Fellow judge Louis Walsh jokes: "I like the teeth."
Chezza
Age: 25 WEIGHT: Featherweight BELT: An oversize one by her fave designer Roberto Cavalli FIGHT STYLE: High energy, like her dancing.
Cowell
Age: 48 WEIGHT: Middle (of the road) weight BELT: A high waisted one FIGHT STYLE: Capable of a stinging put-down.
| We Want to Double Up with Cowell |
August 31, 2008
By Staff Writers for News of the World
Saucy X Factor twins Francine and Nicola Gleadall say they fancy teaming up for a double date with show supremo Simon Cowell.
Nicola said: “Even though Simon’s old enough to be our dad, there’s a charm and a very nice feel about him.” And Francine declared: “He’s definitely got sex appeal.”
The 19-year-olds, from Sheffield, say Simon could even bring Louis Walsh along.
Francine added: “It would be ideal for us to have two boyfriends like Simon and Louis who share a bond between them. I think there’d be an argument over who would have who. Louis is cute. They’re lovely in different ways.”
Last night viewers saw the identical sisters, who claim to be the new Cheeky Girls, sail through to the next round.
Sunday, August 24, 2008
| Nasty Simon |
August 23, 2008
By Staff Writers for The Daily Record
X Factor hopefuls Dawn and Sherry Kirkpatrick aren't the first and won't be the last to be savaged by Simon Cowell.
The twins were infuriated after Mr Nasty said they were like garden gnomes during their audition.
Show staff had advised them to spice up their singing by adding a dance routine when the big-time judges came to town.
But it went down like a porridge-filled balloon with Simon. He's never been a man to mince his words.
| First X-Factor Feud for Simon and Cheryl |
August 22, 2008
By Andrei Harmsworth for Metro
The first signs of cracks are set to appear in bosom-buddies Simon Cowell and Cheryl Cole's glowing friendship on the second show of X-Factor.
The feud apparently crops up after the pair fight over the appearance of some Girls Aloud wannabes that vie for selection.
Cole, 25, hits out at top judge Cowell when he criticises Tia Lau, Layla Manoochehri, Phoebe Lau and Marisa Biliterri from Bristol for being 'over- dressed.'
Antagonising, Mr Nasty says of the girl troops' showing: 'It's all a little bit over- dressed, too thought out. I would have rather four girls like you come in, in jeans.'
Leaping to their defence Geordie WAG Cole says: 'In fairness, when you come to an audition, you come dressed how you feel best. You don't think I'm gonna throw on a pair of jeans and a jumper because if they had of, you would've said, I didn't think you tried with the clothes!'
But Simon, 48, digs his heels in, saying: 'No I wouldn't. By trying too hard you've put me off a bit. I think you look very old fashioned.'
Giving back Cole says: 'I think these are better than any of the girl bands we've seen over the past couple of days.'
It's not long before Simon chucks in a few blows, telling her: 'Yeah but that's not a compliment' before Cheryl snaps: 'Take it as one'.
Cowell has the last word saying, 'Yes but it isn't really one.'
| X Factor: Simon Cowell Gets Stabbed in the Back |
August 22, 2008
By Staff Writers for My Park Magazine
X Factor fans will be disappointed with a former X Factor star who has described the new series as "cringeworthy."
Thankfully it wasn't superstar Leona Lewis or last years winner Leon Jackson. That would have been too much to take. The harsh words actually came from the lips of former G4 singer Jonathan Ansell.
Jonathan clearly doesn't think that much of Simon Cowell and told Virgin Media: "Simon's gone all out to Americanise it with the helicopters, the cars, and glamming it up. I think that worked incredibly well but I got incredibly frustrated with the sob stories as the show went on."
| Simon: 'I'm in Charge' |
August 22, 2008
By Don Kaplan for The New York Post
Simon Cowell has a message for "American Idol" fans: "I'm in charge."
Well, almost.
"With Nigel stepping down I think I will get more involved [behind the scenes]," Cowell told reporters yesterday.
Earlier this month "Idol" boss Nigel Lythgoe said he was leaving the show to focus on his other talent competition, "So You Think You Can Dance," and a yet to be announced project.
"I don't think we would have had the success we initially had without Nigel, but I think that it feels like it's going to be a different show this year and we'll have to see if that's a negative or an advantage," he said.
Cowell admitted that he became bored with "Idol" last year and wants to make some changes to the middle stages of the show and even has ideas on how to improve the finale.
"I felt I had known the contestants for years," by the middle of last season, Cowell said. "And the other problem was that they were so media savvy, these contestants, that they never really showed us their true personalities -- they were like robots.
"I didn't know much more about them at the end than I did in the beginning," he said. ""I think [last season] the talent was great, and the ratings were great. I think that it ['Idol'] could be more interesting and controversial than it was last year -- you're definitely going to see a change and I think it will be an improvement."
Cowell declined to provide details, but added that he plans to incorporate an element into the show that will cause the contestants to experience, "more jeopardy."
| American Idol Host, Judge Begin Feud |
August 22, 2008
By Staff Writers for Stuff
American Idol presenter Ryan Seacrest claims Simon Cowell -- a judge on the hit musical reality show -- is jealous of his success.
Ryan -- who insists he enjoys a healthy, competitive relationship with head judge Simon -- believes the music mogul is unhappy with his ever-expanding career.
Ryan quipped: "If anything in my life is positive in terms of business, Simon actually feels a pain in his stomach or his side. If we're in a restaurant Simon will get up and walk outside. He doesn't want to hear it.
"He does not want to be around if a good phone call comes in."
Ryan is also adamant he isn't bothered by Simon's gay jokes, adding: "I almost think it's strange that nothing bothers me, whatever the joke may be.
"I encourage it. Whatever it is -- I'm short, I'm fat, I'm tanned. I encourage all of it, I don't mind at all."
Ryan is also keen to build his own media empire, like Simon has, and currently has lucrative contracts for presenting and TV production with E! Entertainment news television network, KIIS FM radio and American Idol.
Ryan earns a staggering $12.5 million for presenting the talent search show -- the most watched programme on US television.
The 33-year-old star admits he is a workaholic, a trait which has resulted in the end of several relationships.
Ryan -- who previously dated Terri Hatcher and TV actress Shana Wall -- told Seven magazine: "I don't mind hard work. You've got to work hard to generate something.
"I don't think there's any secret to success if you show up in the right place, at the right time and you put in a lot of time and effort and energy -- you're going to get something out of it. It's not brain surgery."
| X Factor: Simon Cowell Says Stop All the Sobbing |
August 24, 2008
By Sean Hamilton for The Mirror
Simon Cowell says he is banning bleeding-heart sob stories from his TV shows.
The X Factor boss insists that from now on he's looking only for talent -- not tales of tragedy and misery.
He said: "We are attempting to move away from focusing too much on the sob stories.
This year, it's all about trying to go back to raw talent.
"The stories got out of hand and people were starting not to believe them. It had got to the stage that people were trying harder to gain sympathy than to get praise for their singing."
The last big reality TV show -- Britain's Got Talent -- was filled with cries for sympathy.
Filipina club singer Madonna Decena was a prime example. She made it to the semi-finals after telling how she had left her two daughters behind in the Far East to seek her fortune in the UK.
Judge Amanda Holden was left in tears as Madonna sang I Will Always Love You.
Cowell's move will delight judge Louis Walsh, who had urged him to make changes to The X Factor.
Earlier this year, he slammed the last series for having too many tears.
"There was far too much crying," he said. "This is supposed to be a talent show -- not Jeremy Kyle."
Nevertheless, Cowell admits he is still fascinated by contestants' tales of redemption.
He says he's keen to see if singer Rachel Hylton -- an exjunkie, ex-jailbird mum-of five -- will get public support.
The judges have already put her through to the final 24.
Cowell said: "I'm curious to see what happens when she comes to the public vote. It's like a test of forgiveness.
"Are people willing to forgive someone who has made mistakes?
She's truly a stunning singer."
| Osbourne Slams Cowell's 'Huge Ego' |
August 19, 2008
By staff Writers for Yahoo Launch
Kelly Osbourne will never work with music mogul Simon Cowell -- because of his huge ego.
The reality TV star's mother Sharon worked with Cowell on TV talent contest The X Factor, but quit earlier this year.
And Osbourne understands why her mother could no longer work with the music svengali.
She says, "I don't know how he gets his head through the holes in his T-shirts because they're really tight.
"You don't have enough money, in this world, to pay me to work with Simon Cowell."
Osbourne admitted she almost boycotted the X Factor, but changed her mind after learning Cheryl Cole had replaced rock matriarch Sharon.
She adds, "Seriously, I'm the biggest Girls Aloud fan, and that's the only reason why I'd ever watch it again."
Sunday, August 17, 2008
| Simon Cowell Declares War! |
August 12, 2008
By Staff Writers for The Sun
Simon Cowell is more determined than ever to win the X Factor - as he was mortified to lose to Dannii Minogue in the last series.
Dannii's protege Leon Jackson sailed through the competition, but Simon declares that things will be different this time.
He tells new! Magazine: "The thought of (losing to Dannii) is unbearable!
"When Leona won, I felt like I won and I want to win this competition again.
"I don’t care which category I am given as I think I have the ability to find the best in any – that’s what I do better than any of the judges."
| Sick of 'Match-making' Simon |
August 12, 2008
By Staff Writers for The Sun
Louis Walsh is already getting seriously hacked off with Simon Cowell, because the cheeky judge keeps giving Louis' number out to amorous older ladies.
The Irish X Factor judge admits he's flattered by the female attention, but Simon's mischievous behaviour is starting to get on his nerves.
Louis tells new! Magazine: "(The attention is) quite nice, but they always seem to be older ladies.
"Simon will take the mickey for days afterwards – but it’s when he starts handing out my phone number to them that I get annoyed."
| Gordon Brown Gives Us Nightmares |
August 12, 2008
By Anita Singh for The Telegraph
The Prime Minister Gordon Brown is quite literally the stuff of nightmares, according to a survey.
Mr Brown joins spiders, falling from a great height, and Heather Mills in a list of things which have Britons waking in a cold sweat.
He was named the third most nightmarish celebrity, behind singer Amy Winehouse and shock rocker Marilyn Manson. Simon Cowell, Cherie Blair and Chancellor Alistair Darling also figured highly.
The survey of 3,500 people revealed one in 10 adults has suffered a nightmare in the past week alone, and women are more likely to be afflicted.
Being chased is the most common nightmare theme, followed by losing a loved one.
Four in five respondents said they felt traumatised by their nightmares, and one in five blamed a bad dream for making them less productive at work the following day.
Having a dream about Mr Brown signifies that we are worried about the credit crisis, according to hotel chain Travelodge, which conducted the poll.
"These nightmarish thoughts are a manifestation of how much the credit crunch is affecting our daily lives and causing distressed sleep patterns," said the chain's Director of Sleep, Leigh McCarron.
"Dreaming about being chased or falling is a reaction to the stresses we face in life.
" It's no wonder Gordon Brown and Alistair Darling are making a special appearance in our nightmares at the moment.
"Both symbolise the fears we are facing in today's economy."
| Cowell Confident over 'X Factor' Chances |
August 13, 2008
By Daniel Kilkelly for Digital Spy
Simon Cowell has revealed that he is feeling confident about his chances of winning The X Factor this year.
The judge, who was Leona Lewis's mentor in 2006, insisted that he will be able to spot potential winners in any of the four categories.
"I don't care which category I'm given as I think I have the ability to find the best in any category - that's what I do better than any of the judges," Cowell claimed. "Whatever I'm given, I'll always make the most of it. You can always spot the good in any category.
"When Leona won, I felt like I won and I want to win this competition again! I think the idea of Dannii winning again this year is unbearable!"
Cowell also admitted that he is tired of the other judges wasting time by putting poor acts through to boot camp.
"My role is a reality check to everybody," he said. "At the end of the day you've got to find a recording artist and turn them into a star, so just get real and stop putting all the characters through. I'm there to give the correct advice to these people."
| Cheryl: Simon Has Saved Me |
August 15, 2008
By Colin Robertson for The Sun
Girls Aloud star Cheryl Cole told last night how X Factor king Simon Cowell helped her through her marriage crisis.
Cheryl, 25, said the pop mogul gave her a much-needed confidence boost after husband Ashley was caught cheating.
Cowell’s support came after The Sun revealed in January that the Chelsea star romped with blonde hairdresser Aimee Walton, 22.
The Coles split up, but were recently reunited and Cheryl declared: “It’s probably been one of the best years I’ve ever had, ironically...
“Girls Aloud have done a sell-out tour and played at the O2 — you can’t describe that feeling. I’ve actually had a fantastic year in a weird way to be honest.”
But she said Cowell was the real reason she had managed to pick herself up.
She revealed: “Just being around Simon -- and his ego -- has taught me quite a lot.
“He’s actually made me a lot more confident and a lot more comfortable. The fact that he respects me means a great deal.”
Flirting
The acid-tongued judge told her: “You could say I’ve made your life better.”
Cheryl has replaced Sharon Osbourne as a judge on ITV’s The X Factor.
And Cowell, 48, has hailed her as “one of the best people I’ve ever worked with”.
He said: “She has natural instincts as to whether people are good or not and has her own opinion.”
Cheryl — who had thrown her husband out of their home and still refuses to wear her wedding ring — admitted flirting with some of the show’s wannabes.
She said: “There’s one particularly good-looking guy out there — and maybe it was me doing the flirting.” Show host Dermot O’Leary described the man called Joseph, saying: “He looks a little bit like Ashley Cole.”
Cheryl also joked that she fancied Cowell, saying: “I’ve always had a soft spot for Simon...”
| Cheryl Cole: Simon Cowell Always Has to Have the Last Word |
August 16, 2008
By Staff Writers for NOW Magazine
But Girls Aloud singer says his opinions on X Factor contestants is usually right
Cheryl Cole has revealed she often gets frustrated with fellow X Factor judge Simon Cowell.
The Girls Aloud star says that, while most of
the time she respects his opinion, they do clash occasionally.
‘As much as it pains me to admit it, and using Simon’s own words, he is always right!’ she tells OK!.
‘I agree with him on a lot of things but definitely not everything. I tell him if he’s out of order or wrong about someone. Sometimes he drives me mad and he always has to have the last word.’
Cheryl, 25, joined the talent show to replace Sharon Osbourne, 55, who quit over a pay row.
| Cheryl Gets Nasty |
August 17, 2008
By Staff Writers for The Daily Star
New X Factor judge Cheryl Cole has finally got her hands on flirty Simon Cowell. But it’s only in a bid to strangle him.
Fiery Cheryl got the hump with Mr Nasty after he tried to order her around, hated singers that she loved and took the mickey out of her Geordie accent.
The Girls Aloud babe grabbed him by the throat and said: “Does anyone want to see the death of Simon Cowell on TV?”
It was the end of the “honeymoon” for the pair who got on like a house on fire – and even flirted – when auditions for the talent show began.
Cheryl argued with Cowell because she liked certain singers and wanted to put them through to boot camp and he hated them. He stopped one girl group called The Jem Stones and said: “When you sing, I just think Tupperware party.”
Angry Cheryl, 25, hit out: “I was actually enjoying your performance until you were rudely interrupted by Simon.”
Later when Cheryl claimed that accents play a big part in whether acts go through, Cowell, 48, said: “Are you trying to take it back to you just because you’re from Newcastle?”
That was when fed-up Cheryl tried to throttle him.
| Richard Holloway: 'Simon Cowell would like to be PM' |
August 11 2008
By Gareth McLean for The Guardian
The man behind two of the UK's most popular shows talks...about...his approach to managing egos on The X Factor
...Richard Holloway is in a prime position to survey the state of British television. As executive producer of The X Factor and Britain's Got Talent -- the latest in a long line of entertainment programmes that he's executive produced, from The Price is Right to Pop Idol -- he's responsible for two of the country's most popular shows and two of ITV's strongest brands...
His enthusiasm is palpable when he talks about the imminent return of The X Factor, despite his job involving, by his own admission, a certain amount of ego management. Last year, for example, he had to deal with the friction between long-standing judge Sharon Osbourne and newby Dannii Minogue, and then with Osbourne quitting the show...
Of course, Osbourne's isn't the only ego that Holloway has had to deal with. There's also the not-inconsiderable presence of Simon Cowell. Holloway has worked with him since they collaborated on Pop Idol, executive producing every show Cowell has done since. The X Factor is a co-production between TalkbackThames and Cowell's own company, SyCo. "We've got a good understanding," Holloway grins. "He's great at pushing the envelope, wanting more and more and more. Ninety per cent of the time, what he wants is good for the show."
And what of the other 10% of the time? How does Holloway deal with that? "By talking to him. We have a lot of mutual respect. I've been around a while, made a few telly shows and he respects that. He has an ambition and a view on pretty well everything - especially the bigger picture. He's most interested in getting the vision onscreen. The biggest buzz he gets is the success. When we did Britain's Got Talent, he loved that we had seven programmes in the ratings and we took the top five places. He gets the buzz from the tabloid coverage or getting a personal letter from Gordon Brown. I think he'd quite like to be prime minister for a while, though I don't know if it's the country we'd all want to live in. Him and Jeremy Clarkson together: that's his dream ticket."
The mind boggles at that particular prospect, but there is no doubt Cowell is a man in demand. Moreover, as Holloway points out, Cowell is so wealthy that he need never work again. If Cowell decided to take things easy, could The X Factor survive? "Obviously the answer is yes, but would it be as successful? How important is he to the success of the show? Enormously."
| Cowell Seeks New Amy |
August 13, 2008
By Staff Writers for Channel 4
Simon Cowell has said he's looking for a new Amy Winehouse as this year's X Factor returns for its fifth series.
The music mogul said he was looking for someone who was going to be an international star.
He said: "I want someone who is going to represent this country all over the world for the next ten, 20 years - that's what I'm looking for.
"I want somebody who is different and unique and I want to find somebody as good as Amy Winehouse - I'd love to do that."
This year sees a new line-up featuring Girls Aloud star Cheryl Cole, who Cowell described as "a little fighter" and said she was there to bring honesty to the panel.
But Cole said she would be looking to the other Girls Aloud members for advice.
She said: "It will be difficult for me not to get too emotionally involved with my acts so that is when I will be relying heavily on their help and honest outsider opinions."
Fellow judge Dannii Minogue said she and Cole were desperate to hear some new cool songs on the show. She said of Cole: "She is totally into urban music, so hopefully we can get a flavour of that on the show."
| Will Dannii Be X-asperated as Simon Declares New Girl Cheryl 'the Best He's Ever Worked |
August 15, 2008
By Liz Thomas for The BBC
It wouldn't be X Factor without a few scraps between judges.
But there was no sign of reported tension as Dannii Minogue arrived for the show's launch.
Looking radiant in a cute strapless dress and fabulous pink shoes, the Australian popstar was all smiles for the camera.
There have been reports of underlying strain between Dannii, 36, and newcomer Cheryl Cole, 25, with some newspapers claiming the pair barely speak to each other on set.
Miss Cole, who owes her own singing career to reality TV, has already made a very big impression on Simon Cowell, once Dannii's biggest fan.
Yesterday Cowell did nothing to dampen rumours of rivalry between his two glamorous fellow judges by describing Miss Cole as one of the best people he had worked with.
'She has natural instincts as to whether people are good or not, and has her own opinions. She is absolutely brilliant,' he said at the launch of the fifth series of the ITV talent show. 'She is one of the best people I have ever worked with.'
The first episode, which will be shown tomorrow night, is dominated by interviews with Miss Cole, while Miss Minogue, 36, is seen only in the background.
She insisted that she is fine with the fact that the Girls Aloud singer is the main presence.
'She is the new judge and in the first episode it is her story,' she said.
One source added: 'There probably isn't much rivalry now, but that is because they haven't spent much time together.
'Once the competition starts and they are mentoring different groups -- that's when it will come into play because they want to win.
'The other thing is that Cheryl does look fresh and beautiful as well as being really warm and empathetic. People are drawn to her.
'Of course Dannii is attractive but she can't necessarily compete with that -- and it would be naive to think that wouldn't have an effect.'
Speaking yesterday, Miss Cole revealed how Simon Cowell has made her life better after a difficult year.
Despite battling marital problems, after allegations that footballer husband Ashley Cole had been unfaithful, the star insisted 2008 had been a 'fantastic year' and credited Cowell for that.
Cole looked stunning at the launch for the new series of the talent show, but she was not wearing her wedding ring.
She said: 'In a weird way I have had a fantastic year. Girls Aloud did a sell out tour. To play a packed 02 arena and then roll on to this.
'It is probably one of the best years I have had, ironically.'
The pop star admitted that Cowell had 'made her life better', adding: 'The fact that he respects my opinion has given me confidence and made me feel better.'
Cole, who has a habit of breaking down in front of the cameras, also revealed that a young singer, who viewers will not see on screens for a few weeks, had caught her eye.
Confessing only that he was called 'Joseph' both she and new The Xtra Factor presenter Holly Willoughby said he was devastatingly handsome.
Show host Dermot O’Leary, who replaced Kate Thornton last year, added: 'Joseph looks a bit like a young Ashley Cole. Cheryl’s in trouble.'
Miss Cole replaces Sharon Osbourne as a judge on the show, which this year attracted a record 200,000 hopefuls at the auditions.
Up to eight million viewers follow the progress of contestants battling for a record deal.
| Cowell Promises 'Clean' X Factor |
August 14, 2008
By Staff Writers for The BBC
Simon Cowell has promised there will be "no funny business" with phone voting on this year's series of The X Factor.
Public confidence in TV competition voting took a hit after a series of issues involving ITV and BBC shows.
Cowell said the ITV talent show came out "clean as a whistle" in an Ofcom investigation last year.
The impresario added: "Our producers pride themselves on fairness. We have to trust producers and we have to have the public trust us."
While shows including Ant and Dec's Saturday Night Takeaway were found to have "serious editorial issues" following the watchdog's investigation, The X Factor did not.
In December, Ofcom also said it was looking into 80 complaints from X Factor viewers who claimed they could not phone in to vote for eventual runner-up Rhydian Roberts.
| How Simon Cowell Makes Do on His Paltry £35m Salary |
August 16, 2008
By Richard Price for The Mail on Sunday
This month he secured his place as the best-paid male television personality in the world, with a £25 million-a-year contract to present American Idol alone.
Recent estimates have put his wealth at £112million. Throw in earnings of at least £10million for hit shows on this side of the Atlantic and it becomes clear that Simon Cowell just can't help earning vast sums of money.
But TV's Mr Nasty is also an expert when it comes to spending.
Here, on the day a new series of X Factor hits our screens, we reveal the extraordinary lifestyle of the man who left school at 16 to be a humble record company mail boy.
Asked if he thought there was anything obscene about the money he is paid, Simon's response was typically frank: 'I don't have any conscience about this at all.'
CLOTHES
Despite being widely ridiculed for wearing high-waisted trousers (to the extent that he has finally changed his style) Simon spends a small fortune on his wardrobe.
His favourite designer is Giorgio Armani and he thinks nothing of spending £5,000 in one shopping trip on T-shirts alone.
And citing an allergy to lamb's wool, he will wear only the finest cashmere and has hundreds of V-neck sweaters.
Shoes are hand made by Berluti in Paris, at an almost reasonable £1,000 a pair.
This bill increases somewhat, however, when one considers Simon's candid admission that whenever he goes shopping he orders 'five of everything'.
INDULGENCES
Simon is just as choosy about his living arrangements. He recently spent £50,000 knocking down the conservatory at his Holland Park mansion and replacing it with a 'glass room' in the back garden.
A builder who worked on the project says: 'It's the most ostentatious display of wealth I've ever been asked to work on.'
Simon's working environment is just as elaborate. In the brand new, open-plan Sony BMG office in Kensington, Simon is the only member of staff to have his own private office - not to mention bathroom.
He has personally splashed out on an extravagant en-suite washroom, complete with leather walls, plasma TVs, a giant mirror, bath and vast walk-through shower with enough room for ten people.
Meanwhile, on the rare occasions when he is not working, membership of the Royal Ascot Racing Club enables Simon to rub shoulders with such luminaries as Lord Lloyd-Webber and chef Michel Roux.
HOLIDAYS
Even though he has an international property portfolio, Simon prefers to take his holidays in luxury hotels where every whim is catered for.
Top of his list is a £3,000-a-night suite of rooms at the exclusive Sandy Lane hotel in Barbados.
He stayed there on three separate occasions last year, including his now traditional Christmas break alongside super-rich friends Sir Philip Green and Michael Winner.
For weekends on the Costa del Sol, he settles for a £600-a-night suite at the Marbella Club.
In April this year he spent a small fortune travelling to Las Vegas to sit alongside Catherine Zeta-Jones, Bruce Willis and Sylvester Stallone at boxer Joe Calzaghe's world title fight.
Partying at Tryst nightclub and staying in the Wynn hotel, his stay is understood to have cost a cool £100,000.
And despite owning those huge properties in Los Angeles, Simon has been known to stay at the palatial Mondrian Hotel in Hollywood or the famous Chateau Marmont if he has been partying late.
RESTAURANTS
Simon is proud to admit that he never cooks and dismisses the huge kitchens in his luxurious properties as 'irrelevant'. As a result he eats in the world's finest restaurants as a matter of course.
In London he flits between a dizzying round of celebrity haunts - the Ivy, Mr Chow, the Wolseley, Scalini's in Knightsbridge and his personal favourite, Cipriani.
In California he is rather less adventurous. Aside from the occasional working lunch at the Los Angeles version of the Ivy, he eats almost exclusively at his favourite local restaurant, Ago.
It is, however, no ordinary Italian trattoria, its owners include Robert De Niro and the movie mogul Harvey Weinstein, widely regarded as the most powerful man in Hollywood.
In London, once his appetite has been assuaged, Simon likes nothing better than to round off the evening with a trip to Peter Stringfellow's lapdancing club in Soho.
CARS AND JETS
Of all his indulgences, cars are surely top of the list. In one week last October he spent well in excess of £1million on a pair of supercars.
The first, currently his favourite, was a turbo-charged Bugatti Veyron.
With a top speed of 250 miles per hour, it can reach 60mph in less than two-and-a-half seconds, and you'd hope so, given its price tag of £750,000.
Within days he was taking delivery of a Rolls-Royce Phantom drophead coupe (a snip at £400,000), complete with cream leather interior and piano wood finish.
Idling in his garage, meanwhile, is a collection of rare luxury vehicles, including a Ferrari F430 Spider supercar, a Bentley convertible and an antique Jaguar.
For longer journeys he takes a similarly flamboyant approach, eschewing scheduled flights in favour of private jets, with prices starting at £11,000 a trip (and that's just from London to the Costa del Sol).
His reasoning? 'The champagne's better and you can smoke, which is a rare guilty pleasure at 36,000ft these days.
HOMES
As a young man, Simon's father advised him to invest in property, and to this day he insists: 'The expression "safe as houses" is true if you are in it for the long term.'
He'd better hope so because, credit crunch or no credit crunch, his property portfolio is vast. Home is a £7.5million mansion in Holland Park (below), which used to belong to the French Ambassador, on one of West London's best streets.
In LA, where he is based for half the year, he has a £10million pad in Palm Drive and a £2.3million property in the Hollywood Hills that he bought for his girlfriend, Terri.
...AND WHAT HE GIVES AWAY
Simon has been making discreet charitable donations for many years, and frequently turns up at one children's charity in Surrey with the proviso that there is no publicity surrounding his visit.
During an appearance on Oprah Winfrey's television show earlier this year, however, his philanthropic streak was there for all to see.
Having heard the heart-rending story of how three-year-old Madelaine Stoen's parents were struggling to pay for her cancer treatment, he spontaneously announced that he would pay off their £80,000 mortgage.
Money aside (that sum would, after all, barely pay for one of the wheels on his Bugatti Veyron), he promised Madelaine's tearful parents that he would provide ongoing support for the family whenever they needed him.
| X Factor Judge Simon Cowell's Dates with Emma Noble |
August 16, 2008
By Staff Writers for The Mirror
X Factor heart-throb Simon Cowell is helping to relaunch the TV career of beautiful game-show hostess Emma Noble.
The £100million pop mogul has become friendly with ex-glamour girl Emma, 35, who was once voted one of the world’s sexiest women.
Their friendship started when Simon, who splits his time between London and Los Angeles, had a number of meetings with Emma to talk about TV projects to boost her career – but there is no romance between them.
As he got to know Emma, Cowell showed his caring side and became interested in the National Autistic Society charity, which has her as its spokeswoman.
Last night the blonde former hostess of Bruce Forsyth’s The Price Is Right confirmed she’dmet Simon several times.
Dressed in a plunging gold top and jeans on the doorstep of her luxury Cambridgeshire home, Emma – ex-wife of Sir John Major’s son James – added: “We’ve been talking about TV projects together and work for my charity – he might be getting involved. We’ve been friends for a while. That’s all I’m saying.”
Last night Cowell’s spokesman Max Clifford said the pair had met several times and were friends but there was no romance.
A source said the friendship grew as the pair shared a meal with pals at his luxury pad in Holland Park, West London. Meanwhile, Cowell’s six-year relationship with TV presenter Terri Seymour, 33, is said to be “fragile” – and some friends think it is already over.
Terri has always wanted children while Cowell has made it quite clear in the past that he doesn’t want to commit.
One source said: “Simon started meeting up with Emma in January or February. They started talking about Emma doing a TV show.
“They really enjoy each other’s company, but they haven’t seen each other much recently.
“Emma has been bowled over by Simon’s interest in the National Autistic Society. It’s a charity very close to Emma’s heart because her own son, Harrison, is autistic.”
Emma joined Cowell for a dinner party at his £40million home a few months ago where they were joined by other friends including his best pal Jackie St Claire and his ex-lover, pop star Sinitta, 41.
One pal said: “They had a fabulous dinner and everyone had a great evening.
“They all chatted until the early hours. His girlfriend Terri wasn’t there. Emma really had a lovely time and enjoys his company,” said the source.”
Emma divorced James Major in 2003 after it was revealed she was having an affair with her TV Crossroads co-star Graham McGrath.
The unlikely couple – glamour girl Emma and former Prime Minister’s son James – tied the knot in May 1999 in the crypt of Westminster Abbey, a year after getting engaged.
Harrison is their son together. Now eight, he was found to have autism when he was just two- and-a-half.
Since the split, Emma has been linked to Status Quo Rick Parfitt’s son Rick Jr and CSI:NY star Tony Schiena.
Her agent said last night: “I can confirm to you that Simon and Emma are very good friends and they have been discussing a show for Emma for a while.
“I know they have been coming up with ideas for the NAS charity as well.”
| Louis War on 2 Faces |
August 17, 2008
By Gemma Calvert for News of the World
Walsh says Simon and Dannii have both had more cosmetic surgery
The battle of the X Factor judges kicked off again when Louis Walsh accused Simon Cowell and Dannii Minogue of having more cosmetic surgery.
He told the News of the World: “Simon and Dannii have both had more work done since last year. I’m the only judge who’s had nothing done, not even my teeth. They are still my own.”
But then remembering stunning Cheryl Cole is now on the panel, he added: “She doesn’t need it. Not yet anyway, she’s too young.
“But the other two have definitely had a few touch-ups since last year. Just look at them.”
Simon, 48, bristled at Louis’ sideswipe and then turned the tables by offering to pay for him to have surgery.
He said angrily: “Louis should be looking in the mirror and realising what he needs doing. I’ve actually offered to pay for his teeth, one at a time.”
Louis, 56, caused a storm last year when he told the News of the World Simon had work on his famous pecs.
He said: “Simon’s definitely had a boob job. They all have new tits.”
The boobs of Xtra Factor presenter Holly Willoughby have also hit the headlines. She has refused to stop wearing plunging necklines, despite criticism during Dancing on Ice that her cleavage distracted viewers.
Sunday, August 10, 2008
| Zac Efron's Cowell Music Offer |
August 10, 2008
By Staff Writers for Monsters and Critics
Zac Efron rejected Simon Cowell's offer to make him a singing sensation.
The 20-year-old actor -- who has wowed fans with his vocal talents in the 'High School Musical' film franchise -- was reportedly a perfect target for music mogul Simon, who felt he had huge potential as a solo singer.
A source told the National Enquirer magazine: "Simon told Zac, 'With my know-how and your voice, we can make millions.' He also offered to fly Zac to London for negotiations, but Zac turned him down, insisting he wants to concentrate on his movie career."
However, Zac -- whose 'High School Musical' co-stars Vanessa Hudgens and Ashley Tisdale have already released solo albums -- is said to have promised to contact Simon if he ever decides to pursue a pop career.
The source added: "Zac told Simon if he ever changes his mind, he would be the first to know."
| Now, No Worrying what Simon Says (David Cook on Simon) |
August 4, 2008
By Daniel Bubbeo for Newsday
Do you feel that Simon was sometimes too harsh with his criticism?
Simon says what he does, but he always means it to be constructive. Simon is just being Simon. He's honest. I stood up for my ideas whenever I felt like I needed to. The one thing I did take away from it is that I got a tougher skin. Part of Simon's job is to prepare us for the media saying some unflattering things about us. I'm confident with who I am and I know what I'm about.
| Simon Cowell and Louis Walsh in X Factor Stitch Up |
August 10, 2008
By Sean Hamilton & Thomas Smith for The Mirror
Simon Cowell played a mischievous birthday joke on fellow X Factor judge Louis Walsh... by setting him up with a toothless contestant aged 62.
Stetson-wearing country and western fanatic Cathrine O'Rourke -- who had admitted she fancied Louis -- gamely went along with Cowell's prank, and when he gave her Louis's number she called him up and asked for a date on his 56th birthday.
Singleton Cathrine was competing in the second round Boot Camp stage in the new series of X Factor, which starts on ITV1 on Saturday.
Last night Cathrine, from Rutherglen, near Glasgow -- who says she sings BETTER with no teeth than with dentures -- said: "Simon had asked me if I had a favourite on the panel of judges. I smiled and told him it was my wee cuddly toy teddy-bear Louis! So I got his number and I called him. But I'm not telling you what I said -- that's between me and Louis!"
Shocked Louis did his best to extricate himself from the call as courteously as possible.
The comedy scenes came during filming at London's O2 venue. Viewers will see all the X Factor action in the weeks running up to Christmas.
Sadly for Cathrine -- who sang Fly Me To The Moon -- she was knocked out of this round.
| Simon Cowell Tops the Charts at $50M |
August 5, 2008
By Richard Huff for The NY Daily News and Staff Writers for Extra TV
Simon Cowell is TV's $50 million man.
The "American Idol" judge, who loves to pick apart the performances of wanna-be stars, tops a new list of the biggest earners on the small screen.
David Letterman makes $32 million a year for his late-night laughfest, beating out Jay Leno who rakes in $27 million, according to the list in the upcoming issue of "TV Guide."
Cowell's fellow "Idol" host Ryan Seacrest earns $29 million, but that figure includes income from other TV work and a radio show.
Disney teen queen Miley Cyrus gets $25 million for her wildly popular role as Hannah Montana.
Charlie Sheen, tied up in an epic custody case with ex-wife Denise Richards, can at least be happy with his paycheck.
The "Two and a Half Men" star is the highest-paid actor in prime time, pulling down more than $18 million a year from the CBS hit. Sheen earns an estimated $825,000 per episode on the sitcom, which includes a bump because he owns a piece of the 22 episodes produced each season, according to TV Guide's annual salary survey.
William Petersen, who will leave his starring role on CBS' "CSI" next season, earns $600,000 an episode.
And Kiefer Sutherland, the centerpiece in Fox's "24," banks $500,000 an episode.
During a typical season, most shows produce 22 episodes which air over 36 weeks.
The five stars who provide voices for Fox's "The Simpsons" get $400,000 apiece, according to the survey in TV Guide's Aug. 11 issue, out this week.
Among news anchors, Katie Couric leads the pack, scoring a $15 million annual salary. That's just ahead of Jon Stewart, who gets $14 million a year for Comedy Central's "The Daily Show."
Oprah Winfrey's studio Harpo Productions generated $350 million in revenues in 2007, according to the survey.
As for the cable queens -- TNT's "The Closer" star Kyra Sedgwick's portrayal of a tough-gal cop earns her a cool $275,000 per episode. However, the reigning earner was Debra Messing, who pulled in an impressive $3.3 million for "The Starter Wife."
| Sony Takes the Music Collection after Split |
August 6, 2008
By Dan Sabbagh for Times Online
Sony was granted full custody of the music company behind Elvis Presley and Simon Cowell yesterday in an acrimonious buyout settlement that ended its troubled four-year joint venture with Bertelsmann.
The warring parties could not even agree on the valuation of Sony BMG, the world’s second-largest music company, with Sony indicating that the business was worth $1.8 billion (£920 million) and Bertelsmann preferring a figure of $2.4 billion.
The final dispute underlines years of rancour, during which Sony BMG has surrendered market share, but it leaves Sony with the opportunity to take on Apple by integrating the music major with its other electronics businesses.
Sony also gains leverage over Simon Cowell’s output because it owns half of Syco, Mr Cowell’s business, and has the rights to Britain’s Got Talent and The X Factor. Both programmes are made by a Bertelsmann subsidiary for ITV but Sony hopes that future Cowell formats will be made by its television unit.
Bertelsmann is walking out of the door with $1.2 billion for its half- share, comprising $600 million of cash on Sony BMG’s balance sheet and $600 million directly from Sony.
Taking $1.2 billion for half would value the labels behind Britney Spears and Oasis at $2.4 billion, but Sony harbours feelings that Bertelsmann is double-counting. It indicated that the German media giant, which also owns Five and Random House, the publisher, was already entitled to half – $300 million – of the cash sitting on Sony BMG’s balance sheet.
Sony is paying $600 million direct and handing over $300 million of cash on the Sony balance sheet that it was entitled to, valuing half the record business at $900 million, and the whole at $1.8 billion.
Sony and Bertelsmann united their recorded music operations in August 2004. The joint venture suffered a heavy loss of market share – its unit sales are down 35 per cent in the United States – and the partners quarrelled, leading to the departure of Andy Lack as chief executive. He was replaced by Rolf Schmidt-Holz.
Mr Schmidt-Holz will remain as chief executive of the company, to be renamed Sony Music Entertainment. However, it is not clear that he will survive beyond next year amid speculation that there will be a greater role for Rob Stringer, the brother of Sony’s chief executive Sir Howard Stringer.
It is the first music deal since Guy Hands bought EMI for £3.2 billion, although it appears to have been struck at a valuation well below that acquisition. By Sony’s reckoning, the Japanese electronics giant paid 4.7 times underlying profits to buy out its partner, far below the 18.6 times that Mr Hands had to stump up to swallow EMI last year.
Sunday, August 03, 2008
| Terri 'Too Insecure' for Simon |
July 30, 2008
By Staff Writers for News24
Simon Cowell has reportedly split from Terri Seymour.
The 48-year-old music mogul is believed to have walked out on Terri, 34, following a blazing row over Terri's insecurities, and he has now ended their six-year relationship.
Simon's friend told Britain's Star magazine: "He told me he is tired of Terri's insecurities. They lead separate lives, and that's how he likes it, but lately she has turned up unannounced at events he is at.
"Just recently, she was meant to be working on a red carpet as part of her presenting job for US TV show Extra. But instead she turned up at a party Simon was at with Ryan Seacrest. Simon wasn't happy and felt like she was checking up on him."
After the argument, American Idol judge Simon is reported to have jetted off to his St Tropez villa with friends - including his ex-girlfriend Sinitta and celebrity hypnotist Paul McKenna - leaving Terri behind.
In April, it was claimed Simon and Terri's relationship was at breaking point due to Simon's reluctance to settle down and start a family.
A source said at the time: "Terri is worn down by Simon's attitude. She feels upset and humiliated every time Simon speaks about his unwillingness to get married or have kids."
| Rep Denies Simon Cowell And Terri Seymour Split |
July 30, 2008
By Staff Writers for Holly Scoop
There was a rumor going around that Simon Cowell and longtime girlfriend Terri Seymour had split.
According to Star Magazine, Terri walked out on Cowell during a heated argument, and it was due to the fact that Simon was tired of Terri being so insecure. It didn't help that Simon left to go on a trip to St. Tropez sans Terri.
But Simon's rep has denied it, saying, "This story is complete nonsense." He also says that Simon's trip was planned, and Terri simply couldn't make it because she had prior work engagements in the U.S.
| Cowell Love Showdown |
August 3, 2008
By David Jeffs for The People
Pop mogul Simon Cowell has dropped an almighty clanger with furious partner Terri Seymour after inviting an EX-GIRLFRIEND on a month-long Caribbean Christmas break.
The X Factor judge has boobed by asking former lover and pop singer Sinitta to join him for his festive holiday in Barbados.
Simon's unwitting blunder will stun TV presenter Terri, 33, who desperately wants to save their crumbling six-year-long relationship.
The pair fell out after Sinitta, 41 - one of his closest pals and his lover during the early Eighties - publicly humiliated Terri by saying Simon, 48, would never marry her because he was incapable of being faithful.
Since then the pop mogul and telly presenter Terri have hardly spoken - with Terri jealous of Simon's close bond with So Macho hit singer Sinitta.
Because of the multimillionaire's hectic schedule he always organises his end-of-year getaway six months in advance.
And this year, instead of booking the luxury Sandy Lane Hotel on the sunshine island, Simon has opted for a private villa to keep away any prying eyes.
Four months ago we reported that the couple were on the verge of splitting after yet another series of bitter rows.
Matters came to a head last Christmas on the same annual Caribbean trip when the couple argued constantly about his inability to commit himself and have children.
Since then devastated Terri has moved out of Simon's luxury Beverly Hills mansion into her own £2.3million home in the Hollywood Hills.
Now the pair are hardly on speaking terms.
Earlier this month, The Britain's Got Talent judge and Terri had a blazing row in the States when he accused his partner of six years of constantly trying to check up on his movements.
Terri was meant to be working on a red carpet as part of her presenting job for US TV show Extra.
But instead she turned up at a party Simon was at.
Days later furious Simon jetted off to his luxury villa in St Tropez in the South of France with friends, including Sinitta whom he helped mentor from the age of 14.
And in June he refused to accompany Terri to close pal Sir Elton John's White Tie and Tiara ball, preferring to go out drinking with showbiz pals.
Instead Terri turned up with fellow X Factor judge Louis Walsh.
In a desperate bid to make the relationship work, Simon's mum Julie, 82, has been begging her son to give Terri a second chance.
She believes that by inviting her to Barbados it will help the couple talk through their problems.
But Simon knows if he invites both women sparks will fly.
A source close to the star revealed: "His Christmas and New Year break is Simon's only proper holiday of the year before he flies off to the States to record American Idol.
"He's invited Sinitta, her husband Andy Willner, and their two children along with other trusted friends. At the moment because he and Terri aren't talking he hasn't spoken to her about the holiday so she doesn't fully know what the plans are.
"Simon's clever enough to know though that if he puts Sinitta and Terri together things could get tricky.
"What Terri wants most in the world is to marry Simon and have kids.
"So for Sinitta to come out and say he would never settle down with her really upset Terri.
"There's no suggestion that Sinitta is having an affair with Simon because she's happily married. But they have a close bond like he does with most of his ex-girlfriends."
The source added: "She has been trying to persuade Simon to invite Terri but Simon won't commit either way.
"It's all very sad for Terri who is a terrific woman and deserves better."
During his relationship with former model Terri, Cowell has also been linked with a string of women including model Jasmine Lennard, 23.
Simon's fellow American Idol judge Paula Abdul once joked about his inability to settle down.
She said: "Simon is an egomaniac. He's the onlymanIknowwhoscreams his own name when having sex.
"And his idea of foreplay is staring at himself in the mirror."
In the past Terri, who was brought up in Hertfordshire, has revealed she herself would split from Simon if he didn't want to start a family with her.
She said: "I haven't allowed myself to think in that way yet. Maybe I will, shortly.
"It's not something I am worrying about right now.
Definitely in the next couple of years, I'd have thought."
Terri said she is under no illusions about Cowell's views on marriage and babies which he made clear from the beginning.
She said: "He doesn't want kids, full stop...I would definitely love to have a baby.
"Not now, because I'm so busy, but in the future, definitely.
"I would never try and change Simon.
"I love him for what he is - believe it or not! I have to trust him because I'm away so often, as he has to trust me.
"If I knew in my heart he'd been unfaithful, I wouldn't stay around."
Last night Simon Cowell's agent Max Clifford said: "Simon has made absolutely no plans for Christmas and has not even decided where he is going - apart from going somewhere hot and sunny."
Terri.. Sinitta
HOW LADIES IN HIS LIFE COMPARE
Age: 33.
Occupation: American Idol presenter for FOX 11 in Los Angeles and a roving correspondent for news and entertainment show Extra.
Where they met: Friends for years but got together after meeting on a dating service in 2002.
How long they dated: 2002 to the present.
Rumours surround the couple about a split.
Where she lives: Hollywood Hills, Los Angeles.
Estimated worth: Just bought a £2.3 million luxury mansion - so quite a lot.
Age: 41
Occupation: American pop star with several hits including So Macho in 1986.
Where they met: EMI record business.
How long they dated: Old friends and on-off lovers for 18 years.
Got engaged before splitting but remain close.
Where she lives: In a five-bedroom home in south-west London with husband Andy and kids Magdalena and Zac.
Estimated worth: Wealthy - with money for appearing on X Factor in 2004 and royalties from her hit singles.
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