Simon Cowell reportedly banned from his favorite on-set habit on Britain’s Got Talent

The gum habit everyone noticed

One small habit turned into big talk behind the scenes of a famous talent show. Simon Cowell is known for chewing gum while judging performers on stage. Many fans have seen him do it during auditions and live shows for years. It became such a familiar sight that viewers barely questioned it anymore.

But crew members recently noticed something they could no longer ignore during filming. Used pieces of gum were reportedly being found stuck under Cowell’s judging desk. The discovery surprised people working behind the scenes on the production. That simple habit soon sparked a new rule on set.

A surprising rule for the famous judge

Producers eventually decided that something had to change during filming. Reports say Cowell was asked to stop chewing gum while sitting at the judging desk. The request was intended to help the production crew avoid extra cleanup. It also kept the set looking professional for the cameras.

The rule came after crew members repeatedly discovered gum left under the desk. Cleaning teams reportedly found the sticky pieces once filming wrapped for the day. While it may sound minor, the problem kept happening often enough to get attention. Eventually, producers stepped in with a simple ban.

How the crew discovered the problem

The situation came to light after auditions for a talent show were filmed. When the audience left and the cameras stopped rolling, crew members began their usual cleanup. That was when they reportedly spotted gum stuck under the judge’s desk. At first, it seemed like a one-time discovery.

But the same thing happened again during later filming days. Workers found more discarded gum hidden beneath the desk area. The pattern made it clear the habit was happening regularly during production. Soon, the team realized the gum likely came from Cowell himself.

Cowell didn’t realize the habit showed

Sources close to the show say Cowell did not realize how noticeable the habit became. Like many people who chew gum often, it simply felt natural to him. The routine had been part of his on-camera style for years. Because of that, he rarely thought much about it.

One moment reportedly showed just how unaware he was of the habit. A source claimed Cowell once walked on stage with gum stuck to his trousers. The moment happened in front of thousands of fans attending the show. That embarrassing detail reportedly caught people around him off guard.

Simon Cowell opens up in interview

Cowell has openly joked about his gum chewing in past interviews. He once admitted that the habit irritates many people around him. According to Cowell, the gum he prefers is designed to help freshen breath. He says he uses it regularly on long filming days.

In an interview with The Sun, Cowell even laughed about the reaction. He said he chews the gum loudly and knows it drives others crazy. The brand he mentioned was CB12, which he said helps keep his breath fresh. Still, the sound and constant chewing reportedly annoy coworkers.

Why gum helps during long filming

Filming a major talent show can take many hours in a single day. Judges sit through long auditions while dozens of acts perform on stage. During that time, small habits help people stay focused and comfortable. For Cowell, chewing gum became one of those routines.

Breath freshness was also part of the reason he kept gum nearby. Judges often speak closely with contestants and fellow panelists during discussions. Cowell has said the gum helps him feel more confident when he talks. Still, the habit became more visible than he expected.

The judge fans recognize instantly

Cowell has been one of the most recognizable faces in television talent competitions. Millions first watched him as a judge on American Idol years ago. His blunt opinions and sharp comments quickly became part of the show’s identity. Viewers often waited to hear exactly what he would say.

That reputation followed him into later shows around the world. Cowell eventually became a central figure on America’s Got Talent as well. His presence helped shape the competition’s style and tone. Even today, audiences still associate the show strongly with his personality.

Fun Fact: Simon Cowell once had a brief singing career before becoming a TV judge. He even released a single in 1980 called “The Funny Thing About Me”.

From critic to TV powerhouse

Before becoming a television star, Cowell worked mainly in the music industry. Over time, he helped launch several major talent competition formats. His production company played a big role in bringing those shows to global audiences. That success turned him into one of TV’s most influential producers.

Cowell helped develop Britain’s Got Talent through his company, Syco Entertainment. The show quickly grew into a major hit in the United Kingdom. It later inspired similar versions in countries around the world. Cowell remained closely involved both on camera and behind the scenes.

Britain’s Got Talent still shines

Britain’s Got Talent continues to attract huge crowds and TV audiences. Performers travel from many places, hoping to impress the judges. Singers, magicians, dancers, and unusual acts all take the stage. Each hopes to win applause and move closer to the final round.

Cowell has been part of the judging panel for many seasons. His reactions often become some of the most talked-about moments. Fans watch closely for his expressions during surprising performances. Even small gestures from him can influence the room’s energy.

Amanda Holden notices a change

Fellow judge Amanda Holden recently spoke about Cowell’s judging style. According to her, fans may see a slightly different version of him now. She said he had been softer in recent years on the show. But that seems to be changing again.

Holden told The Daily Mail that the sharper Cowell is returning. She joked that his famous one-liners are stronger than ever lately. The shift has brought back the quick humor people remember from earlier seasons. Many viewers enjoy seeing that side of him again.

A new voice on the panel

Another reason for the change may be the presence of a newer judge. YouTube star KSI joined the judging panel and brought a direct style. Holden suggested his honesty adds a different energy to the group. That dynamic may push Cowell to speak more boldly again.

Competition among judges can shape how conversations unfold during auditions. When panelists share strong opinions, reactions often become more entertaining. That chemistry is something producers value on talent shows. It keeps both the audience and viewers at home engaged.

Behind the scenes of talent shows

Cowell has also talked about showing fans more of what happens backstage. Many viewers only see the performances and judges’ comments on television. But a huge crew works quietly behind the scenes during auditions. Their efforts help the show run smoothly.

According to Cowell, the production team works like a large army. Technicians, stage managers, and producers all play important roles. They help set up acts quickly between performances. Without them, the show would not function.

Curious who Simon thinks doesn’t have what it takes? Check out the full list.

Cowell remains a defining presence

Even amid rumors of a gum ban, Cowell remains central to the show. His personality continues to shape the competition’s tone. Many contestants still hope to impress him the most during auditions. A positive reaction from Cowell can mean a lot.

Fans also enjoy watching his reactions to surprising performances. Some acts earn praise, while others face his famous honesty. That mix keeps audiences curious about each new episode. Love him or hate him, Cowell remains one of television’s most memorable judges.

Want to relive some of the most unforgettable American Idol moments? Click to see the top performances.

What do you think about Simon’s new gum ban on set? Share your thoughts in the comments and hit like if you’ve noticed his chewing too.

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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.

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