Simon Cowell's Netflix Docuseries Reveals What Keeps the Music Mogul Looking and Feeling Young

The inaugural scene of Simon Cowell's latest Netflix docuseries, titled The Next Act, features the renowned music executive undergoing what his significant other, Lauren Silverman, playfully refers to as “the longest haircut ever” within their expansive London residence. Believing the ordeal concluded, a slightly annoyed Silverman, 48, returns to the washroom, inquiring of Cowell, 66, why he's also having his “makeup done,” to which he delivers the dry retort, “To enhance my appearance.” Celebrities — Quite relatable, wouldn't you say?

Indeed, the six-part series (premiering Wednesday, December 10) portrays Cowell traveling from a sun-drenched Barbados estate to his opulent Malibu home adorned with crystals, and a coastal Miami lodging, yet despite these lavish destinations, his personal style remains remarkably unassuming. After all, for over twenty years, the man has consistently sported his iconic uniform of a black T-shirt and denim!

“My routine for work is exceptionally straightforward,” he remarks within Us Weekly editor-in-chief Dan Wakeford‘s fresh Just Like Us video collection. “I simply open my closet, every item is the same, and I am spared the decision-making process.”

These familiar shirts have accompanied Cowell through his career, which began in the music business during the 1980s, prior to his rise to widespread recognition in the early 2000s as a judge on programs such as American Idol, The X Factor, America’s Got Talent, and their U.K. versions. He is credited with launching the careers of groups like Little Mix, Fifth Harmony, and notably One Direction, and is now actively searching for a new musical ensemble in The Next Act.

“Since One Direction's disbandment [in 2016], I have yet to sign another triumphant boy band,” he admits within the program. “I genuinely long for that experience.”

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Beyond wealth and celebrity, Cowell remains essentially a man dedicated to his profession.

Discover the most significant disclosures from his Just Like Us discussion beneath this section, or view the complete segment by following the link above!

His Enduring Commitment to Boy Bands

Cowell could have comfortably retired solely on the success of One Direction, yet he maintains a fervent drive to discover a fresh collective of youthful talent, even after all this time.

“Among all the musicians I've collaborated with, musical groups have consistently been my preferred,” he confides to Us. “The collaborative energy with multiple individuals differs entirely from working with a solo artist. I find individual artist collaborations somewhat unengaging. Once we eventually discover the group, I believe you will grasp my motivation, given the infectious energy and enjoyment it generates when successful. It is simply magnificent. And I truly, deeply miss engaging in it. So I concluded, ‘If this endeavor is to happen, it must commence now. Otherwise, I will forgo the opportunity entirely. And if we proceed, why not document the entire journey for everyone to see?'”

Reconnecting with Fundamental Practices

In this era of TikTok, where nascent artists can achieve instant fame from their private spaces, Cowell opts for a time-tested approach in The Next Act: conducting live auditions in London, Liverpool, and Dublin, thereby highlighting the genuine narratives of participants. “I believe that occasionally with these programs — and I confess to having been complicit in this previously — the production itself overshadows the individuals who appear on it,” he explains to Us. “However, I do not perceive that dynamic in this current project. Without the contributors, the program would cease to exist.”

Crafting Commercial Success

Within The Next Act, Cowell estimates his involvement in producing “more chart-topping records than anyone else in the music industry” — several of which he proudly states remain part of his regular listening. “One Direction’s ‘What Makes You Beautiful’ stands as one of my most cherished releases,” he states. “I had been anticipating, anticipating, anticipating that particular track's arrival. All the compositions [suggested for the group] simply weren't suitable. Then, a contact informed me, ‘A fresh song is on its way. I believe it will resonate with you.’ Having just arrived in Miami, I inquired of my car companion, ‘Would you object if I played this track?’ I started it, and the moment remains indelible. My reaction was, ‘Goodness, that is utterly phenomenal!’ Also, ‘Bleeding Love’ by Leona [Lewis]. I adore that. I never grow weary of those two compositions.”

Assessing the Competitive Landscape

Despite not having discovered Taylor Swift, Cowell remains abreast of the world’s preeminent pop icon — much like us! “She possesses a profound understanding of her fanbase,” he expresses with admiration. “She comprehends the essence of an exceptional pop recording. Remarkably intelligent. I hold considerable esteem for her.”

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Discovering the Limitations of Material Wealth

During his twenties, Cowell nearly faced financial ruin due to excessive spending. He ultimately returned to live with his parents until he regained stability. “When one has forfeited their residence, vehicle, everything, and remains in arrears, it evokes a significant realization, ‘Wow.’ In reality, it's not as dire as one might imagine, provided you have a supportive network,” he informs Us. “I retained all my friendships. My mother and father were exceptional. I successfully settled my debts. However, I hold no regrets, as I now value my possessions and have assimilated numerous lessons throughout that period. Regarding credit cards, repayment is mandatory! It's not merely a means to acquire items. One is actually obliged to settle an invoice. However, this knowledge was not imparted [after] my schooling concluded. Upon receiving your initial credit card, the sensation is, ‘Fantastic, I can purchase anything!’ Subsequently, a statement arrives. My thought was, ‘Damn, I cannot afford to pay this statement.” Thus, that served as a significant educational experience.”

Cultivating a Gentler Demeanor

Cowell embraced fatherhood in 2014, at the age of 54. His son, Eric, has altered the life perspective of the television judge, who was once known for his severe candor. Additionally, he acts as a stepfather to Silverman’s son Adam, from an earlier union.

“The moment I viewed Eric’s ultrasound, I transformed,” Cowell recounts. “I became fixated, truly engrossed. I remain so, incidentally. He simply reshaped my existence. I understand it may seem cliché, but it instilled purpose in my endeavors. The shift occurred when I began observing children on stage, prompting the thought, ‘Eric could be in that position.’ It undeniably altered an inner aspect of myself.”

Discovering Companionship

Cowell began his relationship with Silverman in 2012, proposing in 2021. Though they have not yet wed, she features in The Next Act, disclosing her signing of legal documents to adopt his surname.

“She initially exhibited some hesitation [regarding filming], but subsequently grew more accustomed to it,” he conveys. “What's amusing about her is that her on-screen persona is precisely as she is in actuality. During my review of the program, I found myself thoroughly entertained by several segments. Our connection is exceptionally strong. I cherish her deeply. We are a truly content family, honestly. When we choose to [marry], the event will be private, yet her discussion of changing her name clearly indicates the eventual direction of our relationship.”

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The Loss of a Mentee and Confidant

In 2024, former One Direction member Liam Payne passed away at 31, following a fall from his hotel's third-story balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina. This announcement emerged as Cowell was in the middle of shooting The Next Act.

“Expressing my emotional state in words proves challenging. The feeling was quite similar to what I experienced upon losing my mother and father,” he shares with Us. “While I have previously mourned friends, Liam's passing deeply affected me, as we shared a particularly strong connection. He participated in my program at a very young age. I had met with him approximately a year prior to his death, and we had spent an entire afternoon in conversation. Our discussion was outstanding, and we conversed about fatherhood. He did not depart leaving me to think, ‘I am concerned for him.’ On the contrary, I found his appearance to be excellent. He appeared to be in a more content state of mind.”

Conquering Mental Health Struggles

A 2024 study conducted by the U.K. charitable organization Mind revealed that 51 percent of the British populace associates stigma with mental health ailments. Cowell, having personally experienced depression, aims to eradicate this societal stigma.

“[Therapy] seemed predominantly an aspect of Hollywood culture. I grasped none of its principles,” he states. “Subsequently, following the loss of my mother after my father, I endured the nadir of my life, as the passing of both parents is profoundly distressing. I am not one to complain, yet I have, on occasion, contended with depression. I have undeniably required therapeutic intervention. That is beyond dispute. And it genuinely aided me through difficult periods.”

Defying the Natural Aging Process

Cowell is quite familiar with Botox, dermal fillers, and various anti-aging procedures, yet cosmetic enhancements are not his sole method for maintaining a youthful appearance in his sixties.

“Reducing alcohol intake undeniably assists, so my practice involves blending one-third of the lightest beer available with two-thirds of a non-alcoholic beverage, akin to a shandy,” he reveals. “I utilize a vape, yet I experience improved well-being by abstaining from conventional cigarettes. Furthermore, I consume NAD [nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, a metabolic-enhancing supplement]. And also, mitigating significant stress from my life, which encompasses removing detrimental individuals. I am exceedingly fortunate; the individuals with whom I currently collaborate, at last, I have reached a point where they are simply excellent people. Our collaboration is effective. We offer strong mutual support.”