A fan who unexpectedly encountered Simon Cowell at a hotel bar has shared insights into the music mogul’s authentic character away from the public eye, emphasizing that it contrasts with the stern persona he portrays on Britain’s Got Talent.

At 65, Simon has carved out a reputation for being television’s most candid judge, spearheading programs like The X Factor, American Idol, and Britain’s Got Talent.

He is also the influential producer behind shows such as America’s Got Talent and the music executive who established Syco Entertainment, well-known for launching successful acts including One Direction.

However, those who have met him in person suggest that Simon’s true demeanor differs significantly from the straightforward, no-nonsense critic familiar to TV audiences.

One such admirer, John Jilwan, recounted his unexpected encounter in Los Angeles. Sharing his experience on the Q&A site Quora, he mentioned, “I randomly bumped into him in Los Angeles.”

‘He’s nothing like how he appears on television. In fact, he was one of the kindest, most genuine people I’ve stumbled upon.

‘While our conversation wasn’t long, he was very friendly and seemed very down to earth and upbeat.’

John summed up Simon as a ‘really good guy’ and ‘not at all like the overly critical jerk he appears to be on television.’

Another fan, Joe Deilbirt, echoed the sentiment after a chance meeting at a hotel bar and grill.

He recalled how Simon surprised them by picking up the tab. ‘He’s a humble man and nothing like his TV character.’

He continued: ‘Myself and a few other guys ran into him at a hotel bar and grill once at a hotel we were all staying at and he bought us all a few rounds of drinks as we all talked and had laughs about some of the good, and not so good, American Idol contestants over the years.’

Speculation about Simon’s true character has long since been rampant, as the television personality rarely brings fans into his personal life.

But, just days ago, the father shared a rare picture of his lookalike son Eric, 11, as they filmed backstage at America’s Got Talent ahead of the show’s quarter-finals.

The business mogul appeared in happy spirits as he posed alongside his child, who he shares with fiancée Lauren Silverman, 48, and his pet chihuahua, Daisy.

Sharing an album of snaps to Instagram, Simon wore a black T-shirt while his son sported a bright blue jersey which had the show’s named printed across the front.

In another photo, Simon can be seen sitting on a director’s chair backstage while he spoke to a camera.

Alongside his album, the show judge penned: ‘Everyone’s happy’.

The show, which is being judged by Simon, Howie Mandel, Mel B and Sofia Vergara saw three more people progress into September’s semi-final.

During last week’s second quarter-final, the live results revealed Bay Melnick Virgolino, the ten-year-old rock and blues guitarist, Leo High School Choir and dance troupe Unreal would go through.

This meant the journey to stardom ended for Duo Stardust, Ben Hightower, Alain Simonov, Alex Zinger, Jonglissimo, Boston Dynamics and EDT Dance Team.

The artists that move ahead in NBC’s talent competition will return to the stage on September 16, to compete in the top 12.

They will be joined by the three acts that won America’s vote last week, Jourdan Blue, LightWire, and Sirca Marea.

The remaining six will be determined during the next two weeks of the competition as the live shows continue.

So far, one act has been guaranteed a place in the final after singer Mama Duke won Mel B’s Golden Buzzer.