Simon Cowell has come under fire by former X Factor star Katie Waissel following the death of One Direction star Liam Payne as she accuses him of only prioritising profit

Simon Cowell has been blasted by former X Factor star Katie Waissel for only focusing on the profit made by his artists rather than the well being of their mental health.

Katie, 38, who appeared on Simon’s show X Factor back in 2010, along with Liam, paid tribute to the star after it emerged he had tragically fallen to his death yesterday [October 16], while on holiday with his girlfriend in Argentina.

Simon was responsible for propelling Liam, along with Harry Styles, Niall Horan and Louis Tomlinson, into global stardom as he formed their group One Direction. According to reports, Liam, who leaves behind his son Bear, fell to his death from the third floor into the courtyard of the Casa Sur Hotel in Buenos Aires.

Shortly after his death was confirmed, Katie hit out at the music mogul in a statement posted on X. She wrote: “My heart is completely torn to shreds right now, I am at an absolute loss for words. If Simon Cowell dare put a statement out on the heart wrenching, tragic loss of my dear and darling friend Liam, he would be a fool. We all know the truth… and I’ll be sure it all comes out.” Moments later, she then released another statement describing Liam as “my confidant and my rock”, before explaining her thought process about the music industry as a whole.

One Direction star Liam Payne tragically fell to his death while in Argentina ( 
Image:
PA)

She said: “Liam was kind, with a pure heart, a sharp mind, and the wisdom of an old soul. His warmth and compassion left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His tragic passing not only leaves an irreplaceable void in the hearts of those who loved him but also serves as a painful reminder of the systemic neglect that persists in the industry.”

Katie continued: “There are those who had a responsibility to provide the care and support necessary for the well-being of young artists, but too often, the focus remained on profits rather than the people. This industry has treated talent like commodities, and the negligence of duty of care has once again led to a heart-wrenching loss. We need only look at Simon Cowell’s recent interview with Steven Bartlett, where he admits his greatest regret was not owning the band’s name.”

She added: “The real regret should be the failure to prioritize the emotional and physical welfare of the artists who put their trust in these institutions. Contracts, whether they are for television shows or record deals, come with a legal and moral duty of care that must be upheld.The change the industry so desperately needs will come, and we will honor your legacy until it does. Keep singing in the sky, my friend. With all my love, Katie.”

But she was not alone, as Rebecca Ferguson who also appeared in the show at the same time as Liam and Katie, has also expressed her views on the music industry in the past. She had claimed she too experienced “systematic misogyny and bullying during her career.

On the back of the One Direction star’s death, she posted a heartfelt tribute on X that read: “It’s always a hotel room! We both met at Euston station and shared the taxi together to X factor, young, innocent and unaffected by fame. I can’t help but think of that boy who was hopeful and looking forward to his bright future ahead. If he hadn’t jumped on that train and jumped in that taxi I believe he would be alive today.”

She added: “I’ve spoken for years about the exploitation and profiteering of young stars and the effects – many of us are still living with the aftermath and the PTSD [post traumatic stress disorder]. Many of us are devastated and reflective today as it has finally taken its first victim. Rest in Peace Liam, I hope you find peace on the other side and love to your mum and family x.”

Liam’s family also released an incredibly emotional statement about their loss. It said: “We are heartbroken. Liam will forever live in our hearts and we’ll remember him for his kind, funny and brave soul. We are supporting each other the best we can as a family and ask for privacy and space at this awful time.”

The Mirror has contacted Simon’s reps for a comment.