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Simon Cowell - English television personality, businessman, producer, record executive

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03.04.25
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Overview

Simon Phillip Cowell, born on October 7, 1959, in Lambeth, London, is a renowned English entrepreneur, recording executive, and television personality. His career, spanning over four decades, has been marked by significant contributions to the music and television industries. Cowell is best known for his candid critiques on various talent competition shows and his role in creating and producing some of the most successful television formats globally.
Main Milestones
Birth
October 7, 1959
Simon Phillip Cowell was born in Lambeth, London, to Eric Philip Cowell, an estate agent and music industry executive, and Julie Brett, a former ballet dancer and socialite.
Early Career at EMI Music Publishing
1970s
After dropping out of Dover College at 16, Cowell started his career in the mail room at EMI Music Publishing. He later became an assistant to an A&R executive in 1979, marking the beginning of his journey in the music industry.
Founding of Fanfare Records
1985
Cowell and a partner formed the independent label Fanfare Records, which enjoyed some success before folding in 1989. This period was a crucial learning experience for Cowell in the music industry.
Consultant at BMG Records
1989
Following the closure of Fanfare Records, Cowell joined BMG Records as an artist and repertoire consultant. Here, he signed several successful acts, selling over 150 million records and 70 top-charting singles in the UK and the US.
Launch of 'Pop Idol'
2001
Cowell teamed up with Simon Fuller to produce 'Pop Idol,' a British TV show where the public chose the next big music star. The show was an instant success, leading to the creation of its American counterpart, 'American Idol,' in 2002.
Launch of 'The X Factor'
2004
After the success of 'American Idol,' Cowell launched 'The X Factor' in the UK, a talent competition that quickly gained popularity and later expanded to international markets. This show further solidified Cowell's influence in the entertainment industry.
Executive Producer of New American Shows
2006
Cowell became the executive producer of several new American shows, including 'American Inventor,' 'America’s Got Talent,' and 'Celebrity Duets.' These shows showcased his versatility and ability to create engaging television content.
Launch of 'Britain’s Got Talent'
2007
Cowell launched 'Britain’s Got Talent,' which became an instant hit and led to the creation of the global 'Got Talent' franchise. This show highlighted Cowell's ability to capture the public's imagination with diverse talent competitions.
Departure from 'American Idol'
2010
Cowell left 'American Idol' to focus on the U.S. version of 'The X Factor,' which debuted in 2011. Although the U.S. version of 'The X Factor' was eventually cancelled, Cowell continued to influence television with other projects.
Judge on 'America’s Got Talent'
2015
Cowell joined 'America’s Got Talent' as a judge, further expanding his presence in American television. This role has been ongoing, showcasing his enduring influence in talent competitions.
Creation of 'The Greatest Dancer'
2019
Cowell created 'The Greatest Dancer' for the BBC, another successful television format that highlighted his innovative approach to entertainment programming.

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