Simon Cowell, the long-time Britain’s Got Talent judge and music industry mogul, is once again at the center of media buzz — but this time, it’s not about a new talent discovery. A video he posted to Instagram in May 2025 has sparked widespread online speculation about his appearance, prompting some fans to question whether the real Simon Cowell is still recognizable.
Cowell’s Instagram Post Overshadowed by Appearance
In the now-viral clip, Cowell gave followers a sneak peek at the highly anticipated Britain’s Got Talent finale, saying he didn’t know who would win but was eager to find out. (Magician Harry Mauldin eventually took home the top prize.) While Cowell’s message was meant to build excitement, fans were more distracted by his face — many claiming he looked heavily filtered or digitally altered.
Initially, Cowell disabled comments on the Instagram video. According to the Daily Mail, users had briefly been allowed to respond, with one person reportedly comparing him to “an AI version of Simon Cowell.” The comment apparently struck a nerve — and the music executive quickly shut off replies, preventing more reactions.
Speculation About Surgery and Filters Resurfaces
Cowell, now 65, has been the subject of ongoing speculation over the years regarding his use of cosmetic surgery and facial fillers. His appearance in the latest video reignited those discussions.
Fans across social media platforms voiced confusion and concern. One X (formerly Twitter) user joked:
“Actor in a mask saying ‘hope you enjoy the show,’ pretending to be Simon Cowell. He used to be a grumpy guy, not this cheerful lad now. Limited budget, had to cast in central.”
Another described his appearance as “Oldsmore face and turkey teeth,” a comment that gained traction online. The sentiment was clear: many fans believed Cowell no longer resembled the sharp-tongued judge who first gained fame on American Idol.
David Walliams Previously Joked About Cowell’s Cosmetic Enhancements
Even Cowell’s former Britain’s Got Talent co-judge, comedian David Walliams, once weighed in on the matter. During a 2021 episode of Lorraine, Walliams playfully remarked that Cowell often mistook his own altered face for someone else’s.
“Every year, Simon asks me: ‘What have you done?’” Walliams shared. “I say, ‘No, Simon, it’s you — not me!’”
While the banter was lighthearted, it reflected a truth that has followed Cowell for years: his ever-changing appearance continues to fuel conversation.
Cowell Once Swore Off Fillers — But Has He Returned to Them?
In a candid 2022 interview with The Sun, Cowell admitted that he had gone too far with facial fillers, revealing that even his young son, Eric, had been alarmed by his look.
“I saw a ‘before’ picture the other day and didn’t recognize myself,” Cowell said at the time.
“There was a stage where I might have gone a bit too far. Eric was in hysterics — enough was enough. I decided to stop with all the fillers.”
For a while, it seemed Cowell had taken that advice to heart. He appeared more natural in public events throughout 2023 and 2024. But based on recent videos, fans are now questioning whether he has once again turned to filters or cosmetic procedures to maintain a youthful appearance.
A Familiar Face, Unfamiliar to Fans
Simon Cowell has long been one of the most recognized figures in entertainment, not only for his sharp wit and ear for talent but also for his no-nonsense presence on TV. His recent transformation, however, has prompted an ironic twist: the judge is now being judged by the very public he once critiqued.
While it remains unclear whether his look is the result of digital filters, surgical enhancements, or simply aging in the public eye, one thing is certain: fans have noticed — and they have plenty to say.
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