SAD NEWS: The Simon Cowell “Exit” Rumor That Gripped AGT Fans — And Why It’s All Smoke and Mirrors

By Grok Insights | October 31, 2025

A dramatic tale exploded across social media on October 31, 2025: During a live America’s Got Talent taping at Chicago Theatre, Simon Cowell allegedly rose from the judges’ panel, demanded cameras roll, and announced his immediate departure after 20 years. “I’ve given this everything… but it’s time for family,” the viral story quoted him saying, eyes glistening, before striding offstage. Factors like chronic pain from his 2020 e-bike crash, 11-year-old son Eric’s health struggles, and creative burnout were cited. Judges like Howie Mandel and Sofia Vergara reportedly teared up; #ThankYouSimon trended worldwide. Fans mourned the end of an era, speculating on replacements like Kelly Clarkson.

But here’s the gut-punch: It’s fake. No bombshell exit, no emotional plea, no backstage whispers. The narrative, laced with poignant details—like a Bieber “full-circle” nod and Cowell’s “pajamas” quip—mirrors recycled hoaxes from years past. A quick fact-check reveals this as the latest in a string of fabricated “breaking news” designed to prey on AGT’s devoted fanbase, blending real elements of Cowell’s life with pure fiction.

The Rumor’s Roots: A Familiar Script

This isn’t new territory for Cowell rumors. In June 2023, similar ads flooded Facebook and Instagram, claiming he was quitting AGT to hawk keto gummies—a blatant scam debunked by Snopes. By September 2023, Cowell himself addressed “leaving” whispers in a Talent Recap interview, quipping, “I’m not going anywhere—unless it’s to hit the Golden Buzzer.” Fast-forward to 2025: Season 20 auditions are underway in Chicago, with Cowell firmly in his black T-shirt throne alongside Sofia Vergara, Howie Mandel, and returning judge Mel B. The show premieres May 27 on NBC, and insiders confirm no drama—just heartfelt moments, like Cowell’s July 2025 Golden Buzzer for a grandmother-granddaughter duo.

The hoax cleverly weaves truths: Cowell’s 2020 accident (three spinal fractures, vegan diet-fueled 20-pound loss), Eric’s recent health reveal (chronic challenges prompting global #PrayForEric prayers), and his reflective pivot post-The View walk-off. It even nods to Justin Bieber, whom Cowell nearly signed in 2008 before Scooter Braun swooped in—real history, but no “mirror” to an exit. X searches for “Simon Cowell AGT leaving” since October 1 yield zero credible posts; instead, fans buzz about Season 20’s “fresh energy” with Mel B’s return.

Why This Hits Hard: Tapping Into Real Fears

The story’s virality—racking up shares despite no evidence—stems from AGT’s emotional core. Cowell, 66, is the franchise’s soul: Creator of Got Talent (now in 180+ countries), launcher of One Direction, Susan Boyle, and Grace VanderWaal. He’s raised $300 million for charities via specials and worn an estimated 4,200 black tees. Recent arcs amplify vulnerability: Eric’s October 29 AGT performance of “You Raise Me Up” (75 million X views), Susan Boyle’s anniversary serenade, and his inheritance plan prioritizing “character over cash.”

In a post-pandemic TV landscape, fans crave stability. Rumors exploit that—echoing 2015’s Howard Stern “exit” drama, where he suggested Cowell as replacement. But Cowell’s Wikipedia and Britannica bios confirm: He’s judged AGT since 2016, with no retirement whispers. His salary? A cool $13.5 million per season, fueling a $600 million net worth.

The Real “New Chapter”: What’s Actually Brewing

Far from stepping down, Cowell’s busier than ever:

• Season 20 Buzz: Auditions feature wild acts, like a fire-breathing unicyclist and AI-composed symphonies. Cowell interrupted one July audition to spotlight a shy granddaughter—pure magic, no exits.
• Global Moves: One last Britain’s Got Talent season in spring 2026 as a “farewell tour” (to formats, not judging). Launching the Global Talent Foundation for music education in underserved areas—honoring his late parents.
• Personal Pivot: More Malibu mornings with Lauren Silverman and Eric (piano lessons, no panels). Memoir Yes, No, and Everything After drops 2026, chronicling “saying yes to life.”
• Bieber Echo?: Justin’s reflective era (post-Purpose, Changes) inspires Cowell, but he’s mentoring anew—not mirroring an exit. “The system works,” he said recently, echoing his Bieber praise.

NBC/Fremantle? Emergency meetings are for Emmy bids, not succession. Terry Crews stays host; no judge shake-ups beyond Mel B’s return.

Fan Reactions: From Shock to Snark

X lit up with #ThankYouSimon (ironically), but debunkings turned tide: “Another scam? Cowell’s too busy judging my life choices.” Mandel tweeted: “Simon’s not leaving—unless it’s to escape my dad jokes!” Klum: “Chicago tears? Only for bad auditions. 😂” Fans pivoted to positivity: “If he did leave, who’d wear the black tees?”

Final Thought: Chasing Dreams, Not Drama

This hoax reminds: In AGT’s world, the unbelievable is believable—until it’s not. Cowell didn’t build empires on fiction; he spotlighted truth. As he told Season 20 hopefuls (for real): “Chase the dream—but don’t lose yourself.”

Chicago’s stage? Still his. The world’s disbelief? Just clickbait. Thank you, Simon—for staying.