Chas Newkey-Burden 
Simon Cowell 
The Unauthorized Biography

Love him or loathe him, Simon Cowell is arguably the most influential player in the British entertainment industry and one of Britain's most successful exports. After a humble start in the post room at EMI, his meteoric rise began when he became a top A&R executive, signing huge acts from Westlife and Five to Robson & Jerome. Fame and a television career followed when he became a judge in the TV talent shows <i>Pop Idol</i> and <i>American Idol</i> and subsequently created the hit shows <i>The X Factor </i>and <i>Britain's Got Talent</i>, watched by millions every year. His trademark blunt honesty coupled with his extraordinary business savvy has made him a household name – but what do we really know about this charismatic and sharp-tongued man? In Simon Cowell Chas Newkey-Burden finds out, interviewing friends and old colleagues, and lifting the lid on the professional and private life of one of Britain's most eligible batchelors.