Over the span of two years, Simon Cowell experienced two significant bicycle accidents that led to various health issues. Recently, on the Today Show, Cowell and the other America’s Got Talent judges—Howie Mandel, Terry Crews, and Heidi Klum—openly discussed these incidents.
The well-known 64-year-old faced a similar fate while riding in London in early 2022, following an e-bike accident in Malibu in 2020.
In a promotional video for the upcoming 18th season of America’s Got Talent, Cowell was asked how these events have impacted his perspective on life.
Reflecting on his physical condition before the accidents, he said, “I wasn’t in the best shape before the mishaps, so they were far from terrific, rather quite terrible. It wasn’t until the healing process that I realized how out of shape I really was.”
“It was a revelation, a true ‘god’ moment,” he remarked, reflecting on his experiences. Despite the setbacks, Simon maintained that his love for biking remained steadfast, believing that everything happened for a reason.
To the delight of his fellow judges, he declared, “I’m not giving up on my bike. These incredible innovations never cease to amaze me.”
Following the second accident, Simon was hospitalized, where doctors diagnosed him with a concussion and a broken arm.
August 27, 2014, London, England: Simon Cowell attends the press launch of The X Factor at The Ham Yard Hotel in London. View from See Li
Although the second accident was less severe than the first, it still resulted in a broken back and necessitated wearing a wrist brace for several months. These incidents prompted Simon to make lifestyle changes, particularly for the benefit of his nine-year-old son, Eric. His fiancée, Lauren Silverman, also played a significant role in inspiring these changes.
In an April interview with The Sun, Simon opened up about dealing with the aftermath of his e-bike accident.
“When I broke my back, I was in such a dark place that I considered therapy for the first time in my life,” he shared.
“I was so miserable that I couldn’t express my feelings to Eric. I wondered when I’d be able to walk with him and play football again.”
On February 14, 2014, Simon and Lauren welcomed their son, Eric. Following his bike accidents, Simon revealed that Eric had given him a humorous new nickname.
In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, the Britain’s Got Talent judge shared that he felt “embarrassed” watching the shows at home.
Simon took comfort in Eric’s comparison of him to the superhero Iron Man, especially since his back is now supported by metal rods and screws post-surgery.
“When I reunited with my family, Eric said, ‘Dad, you look like Iron Man,'” Simon proudly recounted. “I responded with a smile, ‘Yes, I really am like Iron Man.'”
Simon has since managed to laugh off his setbacks and even downplayed the more serious injuries he sustained in June 2021 while working on the AGT stage.
During a Shaolin Kung Fu demonstration suitable for kids, Terry playfully asked Simon if he could ever imagine performing such risky stunts.
Simon responded humorously, “After injuring my back, just walking around the garden with Eric felt like a huge achievement,” he joked. “Even then, I sometimes wondered if it was a good idea.”
Simon’s journey of resilience and reflection showcases his unyielding determination. Despite the setbacks from his bike accidents, he remains passionate about riding and life, always finding humor in his experiences.
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