Simon Cowell Opens Up About Liam Payne’s Tragic Death and New Netflix Show

Music mogul Simon Cowell is returning to television with a new Netflix series. The show, ‘Simon Cowell: The Next Act,’ follows his search for a new boy band. Cowell recently gave a candid interview about the project and the music industry.

He also addressed the tragic loss of Liam Payne. The One Direction singer died last year.

Cowell Reflects on Payne’s Passing and Personal Regrets

Cowell described being deeply affected by the news. He said it really hit him hard. The music executive had met with Payne about a year before his death.

They discussed fatherhood and life beyond music. Cowell recalled advising Payne to find other passions. He expressed a wish to turn back the clock.

Payne’s parents recently spoke with Cowell. They shared that Liam was proud of his achievements. Cowell remembered Payne being in a good place during their last talk.

The Pressure of Creating a New Boy Band

His new Netflix series captures the anxiety of starting over. Cowell admits he feared the project would fail. Initial audition sign-ups were worryingly low.

The process involved flying candidates to the U.S. They worked with top producers and vocal coaches. Cowell worried they might sound terrible.

He felt a sense of finality about this endeavor. The world and music have changed significantly. Yet, he believes the core of finding stars remains the same.

Legacy of One Direction and American Idol Years

Cowell signed One Direction, his biggest discovery ever. He hasn’t watched American Idol since he left the show. The original panel with Randy and Paula was a brilliant time.

He cherishes his friendship with Kelly Clarkson. Her win on the first season was like a perfect movie. Cowell still believes in the fundamental talent show formula.

He says there is always an unknown kid with raw talent. Sometimes their performance is so good he can’t help but smile. That potential is what keeps him going.

Simon Cowell’s new journey on Netflix comes with personal reflection and a drive to prove he can still discover the next global phenomenon, even after profound personal loss.

Thought you’d like to know

What is Simon Cowell’s new Netflix show about?

It is a documentary series titled ‘Simon Cowell: The Next Act.’ The show follows his attempt to form a new boy band. It captures the entire process from auditions to formation.

How did Simon Cowell react to Liam Payne’s death?

He was deeply saddened and hit hard by the news. Cowell had met with Payne a year prior and thought he was in a good place. He expressed wishing he could have done more.

Does Simon Cowell still watch American Idol?

No, he has not watched the show since he left. He fondly remembers his time with the original judges. He felt the dynamic changed after Paula Abdul’s departure.

What was Cowell’s biggest fear for the new show?

His biggest fear was that no one would turn up for auditions. He also worried the selected candidates might sound terrible with professional producers. He questioned if he could still succeed in the changed music landscape.

Who was Simon Cowell’s most perfect winner?

He cites Kelly Clarkson from the first season of American Idol. He describes her win as being like a dream and a movie. They remain friends to this day.