Simon Cowell, the famously tough talent judge, is known for his sharp critiques and larger-than-life persona.

But last year, Cowell faced a terrifying moment that shook him to his core—a fall in his London home that made him believe, for a brief moment, that he was dead.

Speaking publicly about the incident, Cowell recounted the morning that changed everything. “It’s kind of embarrassing, to be honest,” he admitted. “I went downstairs to get some milk because I was feeling a bit light-headed, and then I fell down the staircase. When I woke up, I thought I was dead, I swear to God.”

The Incident

The experience was surreal, Cowell explained. “One of the guys in the room with me, Ben, who’s worked with me for years, was there when I came to. I saw his face and thought, ‘This isn’t my idea of heaven.’ We both thought I’d broken my neck.”

A Wake-Up Call

Now fully recovered, Cowell says the fall was a wake-up call. At the heart of his motivation to stay healthy is his 3-year-old son, Eric. “He’s a sweetheart,” Cowell said, smiling. “My dad was my best mentor when he was alive. I used to play him songs before we’d release them, and he had an incredible sense of what would be a hit. Eric has that same gift.”

Looking Forward

Cowell, who is back in the spotlight and seemingly his old self, says the scare taught him an important lesson. “It was a huge shock,” he said. “But I’m grateful it wasn’t worse. I want to be around to watch Eric grow up.”

As he continues his journey, Cowell is taking steps to ensure his health doesn’t take a backseat. It’s a story of reflection, recovery, and a renewed sense of purpose from one of television’s most recognizable figures.