Simon Cowell isn’t one to shy away from saying it how it is. And the American Idol judge does not disappoint in this rather candid interview with TV Guide.
Some highlights:
Simon on the Idols’ camaraderie this season: “I hate seeing a united bunch. Because then what’s the point of taking part in a competition? It would be like taking part in the Olympics and holding hands and crossing the finish line together.”
Simon on whether or not Adam Lambert has star potential: “One hundred percent. He’s somebody who should be selling records all over the world. He’s that good. He could sing the phone book, and a lot of producers will want to work with him.”
Simon on the past Idol he would use his judges’ save for: “Tamyra Gray, Season 1. I always, always wanted her and Kelly (Clarkson) in the final. It would have been the best final we’ve ever had.”
Simon on his “frenemy” Ryan Seacrest: “If we were dogs, I’m a German shepherd and Ryan is a little Chihuahua who wants to play with the big dog. … Occasionally you’ve just got to swat him away. But let me also say we are very, very good friends. We hang out socially.”
Simon on YouTube sensation Susan Boyle: “It’s incredible. She was sitting at home a few weeks ago, all alone with her cat, and no one’s ever heard of her, apart from six people, and now you’ve got 150 million people talking about her in America, and people camped outside her house. It’s just the most wonderful story. That’s why I love making these shows.”
Simon on leaving Idol: “I’ve been on record for two or three years saying the end of the contract (in 2010) is when I’ll probably leave. (The producers and I) negotiated how long we wanted to spend with each other. We agreed on an absolutely sensible number, and if we’d have wanted to add more years, we would have done it then or a couple of years ago. … I’ve had the best time ever in my life, and then you have to consider doing something new or taking a break.”
Simon on whether or not the show can go on without him: “A hundred percent yes. It will run for years. Honest to God. It really, really will.”
3 Comments
Everyone goes on about how Simon is this cold hearted guy, but that’s just his persona on TV. He knows what he is talking about, he’s been in the industry for a long time.
Simon Cowell is full of shit, as ususal. Adam Lambert is nothing but a drag queen Wayne Newton / fat Elvis style Las Vegas hack. His singing sucks.
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Kris Allen should win Idol.
Simon Cowell is a pro in the music industry knows what he is talking about. Win or not, Adam is already a STAR, and all the judges – especially Simon- know it.
Kris is nice but nothing unique and has ZERO star quality. Simon can see it, that’s why he is not interested in him.