Simon Cowell Shares How Often He Talks to Ryan Seacrest 15 Years After Leaving American Idol

Ryan Seacrest in December 2024; Simon Cowell.
Credit:

Rodin Eckenroth/WireImage; Trae Patton/NBC via Getty

Key Insights

• Simon Cowell shared insights with The New York Times about his relationship with Ryan Seacrest.
• Cowell served as a judge on American Idol from its inception until 2010.

In a recent interview with The New York Times, music mogul Simon Cowell discussed his relationship with Ryan Seacrest, the long-standing host of American Idol. Cowell revealed that they “rarely talk now,” indicating a shift in their communication over the years.

The conversation touched on Cowell’s tenure as a judge on Idol, from its premiere in 2002 until his departure after season nine in 2010. Cowell, now 66, commented on Seacrest’s continued popularity, stating, “I can’t answer” why Seacrest, 50, remains a prominent figure in popular culture but acknowledged, “He does work hard.”

Simon Cowell and Ryan Seacrest in April 2016.

Kevork Djansezian/Getty

Cowell described Seacrest as “very, very ambitious,” recalling that he had little awareness of Seacrest’s career trajectory, adding, “We rarely talk now.” The X Factor creator also reminisced about Seacrest’s determination during their time on American Idol, noting, “He was very steely about his career — wanting to be famous,” emphasizing Seacrest’s “massive desire about being, you know, very famous.”

Despite the changes in their personal connection, Seacrest continues to host American Idol, which concluded its 23rd season earlier this year. He also serves as the host of Wheel of Fortune, Celebrity Wheel of Fortune, his radio show On Air with Ryan Seacrest, and the annual Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve broadcast.

In a 2017 appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Seacrest referred to his collaboration with Cowell as “always entertaining,” amid speculations regarding taking on Nick Cannon’s role as host of America’s Got Talent. At that time, he expressed, “I miss Simon. He’s a lot of fun to work with.”

Ryan Seacrest and Simon Cowell in September 2007.

ANDREAS BRANCH/Patrick McMullan via Getty

Recently, Seacrest shared insights on managing his busy schedule during a September event, highlighting, “I do sleep. Everyone asks me, do I sleep?” at the YES Scholars 25th Anniversary Gala in Los Angeles. He added, “It’s like, I go to bed immediately, and I get a good night’s sleep. But it’s pretty jam-packed in between the sleeps.”