Simon Cowell Addresses Backlash Over His Role In Liam Payne

Simon Cowell has issued a firm response to online speculation suggesting he played a role in One Direction star Liam Payne’s struggles.

Appearing on the Rolling Stone Music Now podcast, Cowell was asked about social media users who have accused him of placing excessive pressure on the members of One Direction and failing to guide them through the challenges of sudden fame.

“I don’t read any of that stuff — if I did, you’d only torture yourself,” Cowell said. “The idea that you’re responsible for someone’s entire life years after signing them just isn’t realistic.”

The 66-year-old X Factor creator — whose show launched One Direction in 2010 — has occasionally faced criticism from fans who believe the band’s intense schedule and early fame affected the members’ well-being.

Payne was just 16 when he returned to The X Factor for his second audition and was grouped with Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan, Zayn Malik, and Harry Styles to form One Direction. The group ultimately finished third, later signing to Cowell’s label, Syco Records.

During the podcast, Cowell also reflected on a conversation he had with Payne about a year ago, sharing that he offered him advice and encouragement during their meeting.

“I remember saying, ‘Music is not everything. Don’t let it run your life anymore. Find something else that you are passionate about,’” Cowell related.

“You ask yourself that question: ‘Could I have done anything more? What would’ve happened to Liam if he hadn’t been in the band?’”

He also recalled thinking Payne was “in a really good place” at the time.

“I wish I could turn back the clock, of course,” the TV personality shared. “When I spoke to him that day, I felt really good about him.”

“Every tear I have shed is a memory of you,” Cowell wrote after Payne’s death.

In the days following Payne’s Oct. 16, 2024, death at the age of 31, Cowell was among the first to publicly mourn the hitmaker.

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“You never really know how you feel about someone until a moment like this happens,” Cowell wrote in a social media statement at the time.

“Liam, I am devastated,” Cowell continued. “Heartbroken. And I feel empty. And I want you to know how much love and respect I have for you. Every tear I have shed is a memory of you.”

In his lengthy statement, Cowell also recalled that Payne “never [forgot] the fans. I watched you spending so much time with people who had wanted to meet you. You really cared,” he wrote.

The music mogul was later seen embracing Payne’s parents at his November 2024 funeral in the UK.