Music industry titan Simon Cowell has made a candid confession, revealing he deeply misses the success of a world-conquering boyband. This heartfelt admission comes ahead of the launch of his new Netflix documentary series, where he will attempt to recreate the magic that made One Direction a global phenomenon.
The Search for a New Sensation
In Simon Cowell: The Next Act, which lands on the streaming service on December 10, cameras follow the record executive's ambitious mission. The series promises an all-access pass, tracking the process from raw open casting calls right through to the release of a debut single. The central question posed by Netflix is whether Cowell can "strike gold once again" after a notable dry spell.
Cowell's track record is formidable. Starting in the mail room of a record company, he was running a label by the age of 25. He has since been instrumental in launching the careers of major acts like Five, Labrinth, Kelly Clarkson, Little Mix, and Westlife. He even claims to have secured more number-one records than anyone else in the music business. However, his most iconic creation remains the boyband One Direction, formed on his show The X Factor.
A Heartfelt Admission of Loss
In previews shared with The Mirror, Cowell reflects openly on the gap left by One Direction's split. He describes the group as the "most successful" act he has ever worked with "by a long way", noting how the world fell in love with them.
"But since One Direction decided to split up I haven't signed a successful boyband and I miss it, I miss it so much," Cowell admits. This poignant statement forms the emotional core of his new venture, driving his determination to find and mould a new set of stars.
A Glimpse Into a Private Life
The Next Act will also offer rare insight into Cowell's personal world, particularly his relationship with fiancée Lauren Silverman. The couple, who have been together since 2012 and share an 11-year-old son named Eric, are depicted on screen. Cowell told Us Weekly that Silverman was initially reluctant to appear but eventually became comfortable.
"The funny thing about her is that she is identical on the show as she is in real life," he said, adding that watching their scenes back had him "absolutely cracking up." He describes their family as genuinely happy and hinted that marriage is on the horizon, noting Silverman has discussed changing her name.
All eyes will now be on Netflix from December 10 to see if Simon Cowell's sharp ear and relentless drive can once again identify and build the next generation of pop superstars, filling the void he so openly feels.
