Former “American Idol” judge Simon Cowell may not seem like the warm and fuzzy type, but he certainly has a soft spot for the people he cares about. That list includes Susan Boyle, who Cowell originally met on “Britan’s Got Talent” in 2009.
“I was having a terrible, terrible day, and I remember saying, ‘I really, really hope she’s not gonna sing,’ Cowell once recalled of the day he met Boyle, as NBC shared. “Because there were so many bad singers that day and I thought, ‘I just can’t take another one.'” Luckily for Cowell, Boyle’s audition blew his expectations out of the water, and the rest is heartwarming friendship history.
Boyle Says Cowell Was a Big Source of Inspiration
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Cowell quickly became known for his no-nonsense criticisms during his “Idol” days, and his mentoring style doesn’t necessarily appeal to everyone. However, Boyle says he has been an instrumental part of her growth. “Simon is the biggest inspiration in my career,” Boyle once told People. “He’s been my boss for almost 10 years, and I strive to make him proud.”
Cowell became Boyle’s boss through a record deal, which the singer signed with his label, Syco. Clearly, the partnership has had a positive impact on Boyle and her work ethic as a performer. “He inspires me to continue and strive for perfection,” she shared.
‘America’s Got Talent’ Reunited The Pals on Television
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Cowell and Boyle’s journey together began on “Britain’s Got Talent,” but the beloved American version of the show brought things full circle in 2018. As NBC reported, Cowell was clearly happy to see her back in front of a reality television audience for “America’s Got Talent: The Champions.” The discerning judge even stepped onto the stage to give his friend a hug. “So proud of you,” he said.The show wasn’t just a reunion for Boyle, though; it was also a shot at redemption. She finished her original run on BGT as the runner-up, and she hoped to come out on top in the AGT spin-off. Although she did make it to the top twelve, Boyle sadly didn’t emerge a champion that season. However, she still has a very successful career — and a long-lasting friendship with Cowell — to be proud of.
