Simon Cowell

Simon Philip Cowell (born October 7, 1959 in Brighton, England) is a British A&R (artist and repertoire) executive for BMG Records, but is probably best known as a judge on the television programs Pop Idol and American Idol. Cowell is notorious for his uncompromisingly harsh and occasionally controversial criticism of Pop Idol and American Idol contestants. Occasionally he comments on already-established pop icons, most recently opining in Esquire magazine that Beyoncé Knowles was overrated.

Related Topics:
October 7 - 1959 - Brighton - England - British - Artist and repertoire - BMG Records - Television program - Pop Idol - American Idol - Esquire - Beyoncé Knowles

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He started out as a mail room clerk for EMI Music Publishing, where his father was an executive

Related Topics:
Clerk - EMI Music Publishing - Music industry - June 2003 - S Records - USD$ - BMG

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In December 2003, Cowell published a book, I Don't Mean to Be Rude, But...: Backstage Gossip from American Idol & the Secrets that Can Make You a Star. (ISBN 0767917413)

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In 2004, he was a judge on a new British TV talent show The X Factor with Sharon Osbourne and Louis Walsh. The X Factor has returned for a second series in 2005.

Related Topics:
2004 - The X Factor - Sharon Osbourne - Louis Walsh

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In season 5 premiere of Punk'd, he was tricked by Ryan Seacrest and Randy Jackson. He became the fifth non-American/non-Canadian to get Punk'd.

Related Topics:
Punk'd - Ryan Seacrest - Randy Jackson

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Despite his controversials criticisms, he is also known for his animal-rights activism, and has become a moderate supporter of the PETA movement.

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