Simon Cowell
Simon Cowell in December 2011.jpg
Cowell in December 2011
Born Simon Phillip Cowell
7 October 1959 (age 59)
Lambeth, London, England
Residence London, England
Los Angeles, California, U.S.
Occupation
Talent show judgeA&R executivetelevision producertelevision personalitytalent consultantcritictalent managerentrepreneur
Years active 1980–present
Net worth £325 million (March 2015)[1]
Partner(s) Lauren Silverman
(2013–present)
Children 1
Relatives Nicholas Cowell (brother)
Tony Cowell (half-brother)
Signature
Simon Cowell signature.png
Simon Phillip Cowell (/ˈkaʊəl/; born 7 October 1959) is an English television music and talent competition judge, A&R executive, television producer, entrepreneur, entertainment manager and consultant and television personality. He has judged on the British TV talent competition series Pop Idol, The X Factor and Britain's Got Talent, and the American TV talent competition shows American Idol, The X Factor and America's Got Talent. Cowell is the principal founder and chief executive of the British entertainment company Syco.[2]

Cowell often makes blunt and controversial comments as a television show judge, including insults and wisecracks about contestants and their singing abilities. He combines activities in both the television and music industries. Cowell has produced and promoted singles and albums for various singers whom he has taken under his wing. He is popularly known for signing successful boybands such as Westlife, One Direction and CNCO.