Simon Phillip Cowell (born October 7, 1959) is a British record producer, but is probably best known as a judge on Pop Idol and American Idol television programs.
He started out as a mail boy for EMI Music Publishing, but gradually worked his way up through the music industry until he became a record producer.
In June 2003, Cowell has sold his half share in S Records for $42 million to BMG.