Simon Cowell Regrets Insulting ‘American Idol’ Contestants: “I’m Sorry”
Famous talent judge Simon Cowell has publicly expressed regret for his treatment of contestants on the popular show American Idol. In an interview with The New York Times, Cowell candidly admitted he was “not proud” of some of his comments and actions during the show’s early years.
Simon Cowell’s Apology
Reflecting on his time with American Idol, Cowell acknowledged that his persona softened over the years. Initially, he was focused on finding exceptional talent, fearing the show’s cancellation if they failed to deliver. This fear contributed to his blunt and often harsh critiques towards contestants.
Bluntness vs. Humiliation
During the interview, Lulu Garcia-Navarro, the host, questioned Cowell about the fine line between being straightforward and humiliating. He recalled instances where he made comments about contestants’ appearances and singing abilities. Cowell recognized that his approach was influenced by editing, which often emphasized his more critical remarks.
- Cowell described his audition experience as tedious and frustrating.
- He admitted that audiences tend to remember his negative comments more than any positive feedback he gave.
- “What can I say? I’m sorry,” Cowell stated, acknowledging his past behavior.
Impact of Controversy
Cowell pointed out that while he feels remorse about his past actions, they inadvertently contributed to the show’s popularity on a global scale. He stated, “But then again, the upside is… it made the shows really popular worldwide.”
Past Reflections on American Idol
This is not the first time Cowell has expressed regret regarding his judging style on American Idol. In 2012, he mentioned feeling appalled by his treatment of contestants, particularly vulnerable individuals. A year earlier, he admitted to crossing the line in his critiques.
Currently, Cowell is promoting his upcoming Netflix series, Simon Cowell: The Next Act, which is set to premiere on December 10. His reflections on American Idol serve as a reminder of the complexities of reality television and the responsibilities of its judges.
