Fabulous Life of Season 2 Episode 16 Simon Cowell
- June 28, 2004
In the sixteenth episode of the second season of Fabulous Life, we delve into the glitzy and star-studded world of Simon Cowell. A man who has been defined by his acerbic wit and unforgiving criticisms on various talent shows - including American Idol and Britain's Got Talent, Cowell has led a life that's enviable to many. From his beginnings as a low-level industry staffer to becoming a media mogul, the episode uncovers the various facets of Simon's life, including his love life, business career, and of course - his signature style.
The episode starts with a brief overview of Simon's early life, growing up in a relatively middle-class family in London. His father was an executive at EMI Music Publishing and his mother was a former ballet dancer and socialite. The episode then delves into his college days, where we learn Simon spent some time working odd jobs in various fields like construction and waited tables. Despite these humble beginnings, Cowell had big dreams and was prepared to do whatever it takes to get there.
We then move on to his early business career, where Simon worked for several record companies, including Chrysalis Records and EMI. He eventually became known for his skills in music A&R (artists and repertoire), where he helped to shape the careers of successful artists like Five Star and So Solid Crew. However, it wasn't until his break on reality TV that Cowell's star began to rise.
The episode goes deep into Simon's foray into television, starting with his role as a judge on the first season of Pop Idol in the UK, which he co-created. We are shown how Cowell's blunt and often insulting critiques became a signature of his television persona, leading him to become a household name across the world. The episode highlights some of Simon's most memorable moments, including his fallout with fellow judge Paula Abdul on American Idol and his infamous feud with Cheryl Cole on The X-Factor UK lineup.
In addition to his talent-show career, the episode also examines Simon's business ventures, including his record company Syco. Cowell's keen eye for talent has brought some of the biggest names in the music industry to his label, such as One Direction, Leona Lewis, and Susan Boyle. The episode sheds light on the way Simon identifies and develops a star, highlighting his rare talent of finding artists with mass appeal.
Finally, we delve into Cowell's personal life, including his relationship with the four-legged love of his life – his dogs Squiddly, Diddly, and Freddy. We also get glimpses into his romantic life, including his past engagement to make-up artist Mezhgan Hussainy and his relationship with Lauren Silverman, who he shares a son with. Simon's fashion sense is not left out of the episode either, as we are shown his unique style - his trademark black t-shirts, perfectly tailored suits, and aviator sunglasses that he is almost never seen without.
Overall, the Fabulous Life's look at Simon Cowell's life is a fascinating one, giving viewers an insight into the many dimensions of a man who has become an entertainment icon. The episode is filled with interviews from people closest to Simon, including family members, friends, co-workers, and business associates, who all add their unique perspectives into the world of Simon Cowell.