Why Simon Cowell Is Under Fire From Former ‘X Factor’ Stars

Simon Cowell

Music fans are still processing the sudden and tragic death of former One Direction singer Liam Payne. The musician fell from a balcony at his hotel in Argentina, where he died on impact. Tons of fans have been leaving heartfelt messages to Payne and his loved ones. One person who’s recently come under fire is Simon Cowell. The reality TV show host is widely considered the reason One Direction was successfully put together. Cowell recently took time off of filming to process and grieve the death of the former band member. However, two former alumni of X Factor just talked about Cowell in a negative light.

Simon Cowell Is Getting Backlash From Former X Factor  Stars

It’s no secret that the goal of shows Cowell stars on, such as X Factor, is to get young stars record deals and exposure. Katie Waissel and Rebecca Ferguson were two former participants on the show. They recently talked about where they think Cowell’s true priorities are. Waissel and Ferguson talked about Cowell and how he didn’t care about the performers as people.

Simon Cowell
X Factor

The duo said Cowell only focuses on the “exploitation and profiteering of young stars.” It’s somewhat hard to argue against this point, as tons of folks remember Cowell for his outbursts and antics on the early seasons of American Idol. Waissel further expressed annoyance at Cowell for putting “profits rather than people.” Waissel might have a point, but that is what Cowell is there for. He’s supposed to help these young people profit and grow their musical talents. Waissel was alongside Payne in 2010, when they both were auditioning to be on X Factor.

Katie Waissel’s Messages On Social Media

Ever since Payne’s death, Waissel has posted multiple posts on X, formerly known as Twitter. In one of her long posts, Waissel said:

It is with a profoundly heavy heart that I share this statement on the tragic loss of my dear friend, Liam Payne. We first met in 2010 on The X Factor, where Liam became my confidant and my rock, offering unwavering support during some of my darkest moments on that journey.


She then called out Cowell for only caring about money, not the boys in the band. Waissel has harsh feelings for Cowell. Her post continued with:

“This industry has treated talent like commodities, and the negligence of duty of care has once again led to a heart-wrenching loss. We need only look at Simon Cowell’s recent interview with Steven Bartlett, where he admits his greatest regret was not owning the band’s name. The real regret should be the failure to prioritize the emotional and physical welfare of the artists who put their trust in these institutions.”

It’s obvious to fans Waissel loved Payne and only wanted the best for him. Cowell has yet to comment on any of these posts.

What are your thoughts on Simon Cowell being called out by Katie Waissel and Rebecca Ferguson? Let us know in the comments below.

Allie Johnson

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