Simon Cowell has come under fire from former X Factor contestant Katie Waissel, who claims he prioritizes profits over the mental well-being of his artists.
Katie, 38, who appeared on X Factor in 2010 alongside Liam Payne and his One Direction bandmates, paid tribute to the late star after his tragic death on October 16 while on holiday in Argentina. Music mogul Simon had played a key role in launching Liam’s career, along with Harry Styles, Niall Horan, and Louis Tomlinson and Zayn Malik as part of One Direction, the Mirror reports.
Following reports of Liam’s death, Katie lashed out at Simon in a statement on X, saying: “My heart is completely torn to shreds right now, I am at an absolute loss for words. If Simon Cowell dare put a statement out on the heart wrenching, tragic loss of my dear and darling friend Liam, he would be a fool. We all know the truth… and I’ll be sure it all comes out.”
In a subsequent statement, Katie described Liam as “my confidant and my rock” and shared her thoughts on the music industry’s shortcomings. She expressed: “Liam was kind, with a pure heart, a sharp mind, and the wisdom of an old soul. His warmth and compassion left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
“His tragic passing not only leaves an irreplaceable void in the hearts of those who loved him but also serves as a painful reminder of the systemic neglect that persists in the industry.”
Katie went on to say: “There are those who had a responsibility to provide the care and support necessary for the well-being of young artists, but too often, the focus remained on profits rather than the people. 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.”
She further added: “The real regret should be the failure to prioritize the emotional and physical welfare of the artists who put their trust in these institutions. Contracts, whether they are for television shows or record deals, come with a legal and moral duty of care that must be up-held.
“The change the industry so desperately needs will come, and we will honour your legacy until it does. Keep singing in the sky, my friend. With all my love, Katie.”
But she wasn’t the only one; Rebecca Ferguson, who rose to fame alongside Liam and Katie in the show, has previously shared her own hardships within the music industry. She had spoken out about enduring “systematic misogyny and bullying during her career.
On the back of the One Direction star’s death, she posted a heartfelt tribute on X that read: “It’s always a hotel room! We both met at Euston station and shared the taxi together to X factor, young, innocent and unaffected by fame. I can’t help but think of that boy who was hopeful and looking forward to his bright future ahead. If he hadn’t jumped on that train and jumped in that taxi I believe he would be alive today.”
She continued, highlighting the broader impact on mental health, “I’ve spoken for years about the exploitation and profiteering of young stars and the effects – many of us are still living with the aftermath and the PTSD [post traumatic stress disorder].
“Many of us are devastated and reflective today as it has finally taken its first victim. Rest in Peace Liam, I hope you find peace on the other side and love to your mum and family x.”
Amidst this collective mourning, Liam’s loved ones have issued a profoundly moving tribute, expressing their profound grief: “We are heartbroken. Liam will forever live in our hearts and we’ll remember him for his kind, funny and brave soul. We are supporting each other the best we can as a family and ask for privacy and space at this awful time.”
Get the latest celebrity gossip and telly news sent straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily Showbiz newsletter here.