The Daily 'The Interview': Simon Cowell Is Sorry, Softer and Grieving Liam Payne
157 snips
Nov 29, 2025 
Simon Cowell, the iconic television producer and talent-show judge, opens up about his transformation from 'king of mean' to a more introspective version of himself. He candidly discusses his experiences with therapy, fatherhood, and the pressures of fame on young artists like Liam Payne. Simon reflects on significant moments in his career, including his regrets over the Spice Girls and the creation of One Direction. He also shares his mixed feelings about AI in music and emphasizes the importance of staying engaged with new talent in a rapidly changing industry.
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Home Life Softened Cowell
- Simon Cowell recounts being greeted with tea and family warmth when the interviewer visited his home, showing a softer domestic side.
- He says becoming a father and going to therapy helped mellow him and change his public persona.
Audience Energy As Market Signal
- Cowell treats audience energy as a real signal and encourages feedback, even boos, to gauge performance.
- He believes being kind to the audience is practical because they ultimately pay performers' salaries.
Breaking Records In Clubs
- Cowell describes testing records in gay clubs and watching DJs' reactions to judge crossover potential.
- He used club play to push songs into the charts and force radio to follow.
