Fans Are Less Than Sympathetic to Simon Cowell’s Biking Accident
America’s Got Talent judge Simon Cowell reportedly underwent surgery after breaking his back during an electric bike test run. The accident occurred on the afternoon of August 8, in the courtyard of his Malibu, California home.
Simon Cowell broke his back riding an electric bicycle
According to The Guardian, Cowell — who was due back at America’s Got Talent this week — was taken to a hospital for surgery to repair a broken back following a fall while testing a new electric bike.
“He’s doing fine,” a rep for Cowell told The Hollywood Reporter. “He’s under observation and is in the best possible hands.”
Cowell has been spotted on other bike rides with a partner, Lauren Silverman. The American Idol and X-Factor judge adopted a healthier lifestyle in recent months including regular exercise.
The extent of Cowell’s injuries are unclear at this time.
Cowell isn’t the only celebrity in on the e-bike fad
While Cowell recovers from surgery, other celebrities are out riding the electric bike wave en masse. California governor Arnold Schwarzenegger posted a quarantine bike ride photo on Instagram. He’s said to have multiple e-bikes in his possession.
Others, like Kendall Jenner, Leonardo DiCaprio, Jay Leno, and Miley Cyrus ride their e-bikes all over Los Angeles. Likewise, Elon Musk, Ellen DeGeneres, and Ryan Reynolds all play favorites when it comes to their electronic bicycles for various reasons.
The pros of owning an e-bike are that they’re easier to ride than a standard bike, they’re environmentally friendly with rechargeable batteries, and are said to be more efficient (because they’re faster). However, they’re also pricey ranging from $400-$2000 or more.
Fans aren’t exactly sympathizing with Cowell
News of Cowell’s accident brought an onslaught of mixed reactions among social media users. While some offer words of support, others aren’t so sympathetic and for a specific reason.
On July 23, Cowell tweeted about the 10-year anniversary of One Direction.
“Today is a very special day. I was lucky enough to meet five guys. Who were so much fun. So talented. It feels like 10 minutes ago. And you made it happen,” Cowell wrote.
In response, fans of the group replied with former 1D member Louis Tomlinson’s statement after leaving Syco/Columbia Records on July 11, 2020.
“Hope everyone is doing ok! Just wanted to let you know that Syco Music and I have agreed to part ways. I’m really excited for the future and to be back in the studio writing the next album. Can’t wait to finally see you all on tour!! Stay safe and see you soon, Louis x,” Tomlinson tweeted.
Tomlinson became a part of Arista Records/Epic under Cowell’s Syco in 2017 for the release of his solo work for the U.S. Cowell resigned from Syco days later and bought out Sony Music Entertainment’s stake, giving him sole ownership.
Fans began flooding Twitter with a copy of Tomlinson’s statement as a response to Cowell’s accident. There are multiple reasons for the saltiness toward Cowell, but none more than the alleged dealings between Cowell and 1D. Reported mismanagement, rebranding issues, strict rules that caused emotional distress among group members, still linger with 1D fans.
The group unofficially disbanded in 2015 to pursue solo projects. Meanwhile, Variety reported that Cowell is authoring a seven-book series, Wishfits, due out in 2021, which he’ll co-write with son, Eric. It’s unclear if his e-bike accident will affect future endeavors moving forward.
