Simon Cowell Admits to Feeling Sad About His Relationship with Ryan Seacrest

Although Simon Cowell and Ryan Seacrest collaborated on American Idol for nine seasons, their relationship has since drifted apart. Simon served as a judge on the renowned singing competition from its debut in 2002 until he left after Season 9 in 2010. While he enjoyed his time on the show, Simon chose to leave to create The X Factor, a program that gave him greater creative freedom and eliminated age restrictions for contestants.

Simon is also recognized for his role in discovering the late Liam Payne and helping form the global sensation One Direction. Despite their years of working closely together, Simon admitted that he and Ryan now rarely communicate.

During an interview with The New York Times, Simon reflected on his Idol days and mentioned Ryan. While he was unsure why Ryan continues to be so prominent in the entertainment world, he acknowledged his hard work, saying, He was very, very ambitious. I didnt follow his career, so I dont know what hes done. We rarely talk now.

Simon did, however, remember Ryans determination and drive while on American Idol. He was very steely about his career wanting to be famous. This massive, massive desire about being, you know, very famous, Simon commented.

Ryan Seacrest continues to host American Idol, which is set to return for its 24th season on January 26, 2026. In addition to the show, he hosts Wheel of Fortune and Celebrity Wheel of Fortune, and leads his long-running radio program, On Air with Ryan Seacrest. He also serves as executive producer for popular projects such as Keeping Up With the Kardashians and Hulus The Kardashians.

Reflecting on their past collaboration, Ryan told Ellen DeGeneres in 2017, I miss Simon. Hes a lot of fun to work with.

Author: Noah Whitman