# Simon Fuller > Mediated Wiki article. Canonical URL: https://mediated.wiki/source/Simon_Fuller > Markdown URL: https://mediated.wiki/source/Simon_Fuller.md > Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Simon_Fuller > Source revision: 1354456188 > License: Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/) {{Short description|British businessman & producer (born 1960)}} {{Use British English|date=January 2016}} {{Use dmy dates|date=May 2014}} {{Infobox person | name = Simon Fuller | birth_name = Simon Robert Fuller | image = Simonfuller (cropped).jpg | image_caption = Simon Fuller in 2022 | birth_date = {{birth date and age|df=yes|1960|5|17}} | birth_place = [British Cyprus](/source/British_Cyprus) | occupation = [Talent manager](/source/Talent_manager), [television producer](/source/television_producer), [investor](/source/investor), [creative consultant](/source/creative_consultant) | years_active = 1981–present | spouse = {{marriage|Natalie Swanston|2008}} | children = 3 | employer = [19 Entertainment](/source/19_Entertainment) (1985–2010)
[XIX Entertainment](/source/XIX_Entertainment) (2010–present) | website = {{URL|xixentertainment.com}} }} '''Simon Robert Fuller''' (born 17 May 1960) is a British entrepreneur, [artist manager](/source/artist_manager), and film and television producer.{{cite web |title=Simon Fuller |url=https://variety.com/exec/simon-fuller/ |date=16 December 2013 }} He is the creator of the [''Idols''](/source/Idol_(franchise)) [TV format](/source/TV_format), including the British series ''[Pop Idol](/source/Pop_Idol)'' and the American series ''[American Idol](/source/American_Idol)''. Fuller came to prominence in the 1990s for managing the British girl group the [Spice Girls](/source/Spice_Girls), and he has since managed acts in various fields of entertainment, from sports stars [David Beckham](/source/David_Beckham) and [Lewis Hamilton](/source/Lewis_Hamilton) to other musicians such as [Amy Winehouse](/source/Amy_Winehouse) and [Annie Lennox](/source/Annie_Lennox).[https://www.theguardian.com/media/2007/jan/14/broadcasting.pop The man with stars in his eyes] ''The Guardian''. Retrieved 12 May 2024{{cite news |title=Annie Lennox behind the Spice Girls' success, says Simon Fuller |url=https://www.theguardian.com/music/2014/jan/14/spice-girls-annie-lennox-simon-fuller |access-date=12 May 2024 |work=The Guardian}} Since 2020, Fuller has been working with tech firm [TikTok](/source/TikTok) to aid development of new TikTok creatives{{Cite news|date=7 August 2020|title=American Idol creator Simon Fuller turns to TikTok talent|work=BBC News|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-53695911}} and in the same year he announced a partnership with [Verizon Communications](/source/Verizon_Communications) to develop [5G](/source/5G) content.{{cite news|title=Simon Fuller, Verizon Form Pact to Develop 5G Music and Entertainment Experiences (EXCLUSIVE)|magazine=Variety|url=https://variety.com/2020/digital/news/simon-fuller-verizon-5g-music-entertainment-1234848401/|access-date=17 December 2020}} In 2021, [Pearson PLC](/source/Pearson_PLC) announced a partnership with Fuller to create a new global education business in Performing Arts.{{Cite web |date=2021-10-15 |title=Pearson and Simon Fuller join forces to set up Academy of Pop |url=https://www.theguardian.com/business/2021/oct/15/pearson-and-simon-fuller-join-forces-to-set-up-academy-of-pop-spice-girls |access-date=2022-11-25 |website=the Guardian |language=en}} In 2016, Fuller persuaded Swedish quartet [ABBA](/source/ABBA) to reunite to explore working in virtual reality,{{Cite web|url=https://www.independent.ie/entertainment/music/abba-back-together-for-simon-fuller-project-35163890.html|title = ABBA back together for Simon Fuller project| date=26 October 2016 }} which led to the [ABBA Voyage](/source/ABBA_Voyage) project.{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-58339627|title=ABBA tease major announcement ahead of new music|work=BBC News|date=26 August 2021}} In 2007, ''[Time](/source/Time_magazine)'' named Fuller as one of the [100 most influential people](/source/Time_100) in the world.[https://web.archive.org/web/20070505050601/http://www.time.com/time/specials/2007/time100/article/0,28804,1595326_1595332_1616684,00.html The TIME 100: Simon Fuller], [Time](/source/Time_magazine). Retrieved 3 May 2007 He has been certified as the most successful British music manager of all time by ''[Billboard](/source/Billboard_(magazine))''. Fuller received the 2,441st star on the [Hollywood Walk of Fame](/source/Hollywood_Walk_of_Fame) on 23 May 2011.[http://www.walkoffame.com/simon-fuller Simon Fuller: Hollywood Walk of Fame] WalkofFame.com. Retrieved 15 June 2011 In 2014, he was awarded an honorary degree by the [University of Brighton](/source/University_of_Brighton) in his home county [East Sussex](/source/East_Sussex) in recognition for his "contribution to business, entrepreneurship and philanthropy". The 2020 ''[Sunday Times Rich List](/source/Sunday_Times_Rich_List)'' estimated Fuller's wealth at £445 million.{{cite news|url=https://www.theargus.co.uk/news/18455350.sussexs-richest-people---made-money/|title=Sussex's richest people – and how they made their money|date=17 May 2020|access-date=15 March 2022|work=The Argus}} == Biography == Fuller was born on 17 May 1960 in [British Cyprus](/source/British_Cyprus),{{cite news|title=This man wants to rule the world|author=[Geoffrey Wansell](/source/Geoffrey_Wansell)|date=18 April 2002|newspaper=London Evening Standard|url=http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/arts/music/this-man-wants-to-rule-the-world-6320518.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130505063135/http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/arts/music/this-man-wants-to-rule-the-world-6320518.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=5 May 2013|access-date=4 May 2012}} though later the family moved to [Accra, Ghana](/source/Accra%2C_Ghana) where his father was the headmaster of the British Military School, Burma Camp. The family moved back to [Hastings](/source/Hastings), East Sussex, where Simon's father became headmaster of the school he attended.Marre, Oliver [https://www.theguardian.com/media/2007/jan/14/broadcasting.pop "The man with stars in his eyes"], guardian.co.uk, 14 January 2007. He has two brothers, [Kim](/source/Kim_Fuller) and Mark. Fuller began his career in 1981 at Chrysalis Music Limited in the UK,[http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2011/05/22/american-idol-creator-simon-fuller-gets-star-on-walk-of-fame "'American Idol' Creator Simon Fuller Gets Star On Walk Of Fame"], losangeles.cbslocal.com; retrieved 23 May 2012 where he signed [Madonna](/source/Madonna_(entertainer))'s first hit "[Holiday](/source/Holiday_(Madonna_song))" to the company. He started his own management company in 1985, [19 Entertainment](/source/19_Entertainment),Jamie Doward (27 July 2003). [https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2003/jul/27/artsfeatures "Reign maker"], ''The Guardian'', 27 July 2003; retrieved 23 May 2012. eventually selling the business to [CKX, Inc.](/source/CKX%2C_Inc.) in a cash and stock deal worth over $200 million in March 2005.[https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2010-may-08-la-fi-ct-ckx-20100508-story.html CKX chief's departure could set off bidding war for 'American Idol' parent] Los Angeles Times. Retrieved 11 April 2012 In 2008 the company delivered a profit of $92.5 million (£66m) into the parent company.Sweney, Mark (3 March 2009) [https://www.theguardian.com/media/2009/mar/03/19-entertainment-profits-soar 19 Entertainment profits soar] ''The Guardian''. Retrieved 11 April 2012 Fuller became a director of CKX, a position which gave him creative control over all of CKX's assets including the [Elvis Presley Estate](/source/Elvis_Presley_Enterprises), [Muhammad Ali](/source/Muhammad_Ali)'s business interests, and other rights properties, until January 2010 when he started a new firm, [XIX Entertainment](/source/XIX_Entertainment), while continuing to work with CKX/19 as a consultant and executive producer.{{cite news|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/american-idol-creator-simon-fuller-184131|work=[The Hollywood Reporter](/source/The_Hollywood_Reporter)|author=Georg Szalai|title='American Idol' Creator Simon Fuller's 2010 CKX Compensation: $14.2 Million|date=2 May 2011|access-date=12 May 2012}} XIX Entertainment was given a valuation of $100 million and is run from offices in London and Los Angeles.{{cite news|url=http://www.ft.com/intl/cms/s/0/44f0b088-4e7a-11e0-98eb-00144feab49a.html#axzz1uf4tquGev|archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20221210201206/https://www.ft.com/content/44f0b088-4e7a-11e0-98eb-00144feab49a#axzz1uf4tquGev|archive-date=10 December 2022|url-access=subscription|title=Fuller's XIX now valued at $100m|date=14 March 2011|access-date=11 May 2012|newspaper=[Financial Times](/source/Financial_Times)|author=Matthew Garrahan|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://www.companiesintheuk.co.uk/ltd/xix-entertainment|title=XIX Entertainment Ltd profile|access-date=11 May 2012|publisher=Companies in the UK}} In February 2008, Fuller was presented with the PGA Award by the [Producers Guild of America](/source/Producers_Guild_of_America) in Hollywood. At the event he was praised for his creativity, entrepreneurship, and charity work by [British Prime Minister](/source/Prime_Minister_of_the_United_Kingdom) [Gordon Brown](/source/Gordon_Brown) and current [King](/source/Monarchy_of_the_United_Kingdom) [Charles III](/source/Charles_III), who was still the [Prince of Wales](/source/Prince_of_Wales) at the time, who also thanked Fuller for his support of the Prince's charity [The Prince's Trust](/source/The_Prince's_Trust).{{citation needed|date=November 2025}} === TV production, formats, technology === Fuller's first broadcast venture was ''[Miami ''7''](/source/Miami_7)'', a scripted TV drama starring the British pop group [S Club 7](/source/S_Club) screened by [BBC](/source/BBC)/[Fox Kids](/source/Fox_Kids) in 100+ territories around the world.{{cite news|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/796258.stm|title=S Club reach for the top|access-date=19 May 2012|date=18 June 2000|work=BBC News|publisher=BBC}} ''Miami 7'' launched the careers of several stars including [Rachel Stevens](/source/Rachel_Stevens), [Jon Lee](/source/Jon_Lee_(singer)), [Holly Willoughby](/source/Holly_Willoughby), and [Ben Barnes](/source/Ben_Barnes_(actor)), and the show created a blueprint for the teen-oriented television musicals that followed, including ''[Glee](/source/Glee_(TV_series))'' and ''[High School Musical](/source/High_School_Musical)''.{{cite magazine |url=http://in.reuters.com/article/us-idol-fuller-idINN1642797120080518|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160307055036/http://in.reuters.com/article/us-idol-fuller-idINN1642797120080518|url-status=dead|archive-date=7 March 2016|title=New shows in the works from "Idol" creator |author=Catherine Applefeld Olson |date=18 May 2008 |access-date=19 May 2012 |magazine=[Billboard](/source/Billboard_Magazine)}} In 2001, Fuller created ''[Pop Idol](/source/Pop_Idol)'', a prime time TV show on British television that [Maggie Brown](/source/Maggie_Brown) in ''[The Guardian](/source/The_Guardian)'' states "became a seminal reality/entertainment format".{{cite news |title=The scribbled note that changed TV |url=https://www.theguardian.com/media/2009/oct/26/x-factor-cowell-fuller |access-date=3 October 2019 |work=The Guardian}} The show produced instant No 1 chart hits, including for [Will Young](/source/Will_Young), whose single "[Evergreen](/source/Evergreen_(Westlife_song))" was named by ''[NME](/source/NME)'' magazine in 2012 as the "biggest selling single of the century" in the UK.{{cite web |url=https://www.nme.com/news/will-young/63667 |title=Will Young's 'Evergreen' revealed as biggest selling single of 21st century |date=8 May 2012 |access-date=19 May 2012 |publisher=NME}} Fuller sold ''[Pop Idol](/source/Pop_Idol)'' around the world, and he has been credited with creating the world's most valuable TV format with a value of over $8 billion made up of revenue from sponsors, merchandising, telephone, music sales, broadcast and advertising sources. In the US, ''[American Idol](/source/American_Idol)'' became a No.1 rated show. The show made stars of its presenter [Ryan Seacrest](/source/Ryan_Seacrest) as well as [Simon Cowell](/source/Simon_Cowell), [Randy Jackson](/source/Randy_Jackson) and [Paula Abdul](/source/Paula_Abdul) as well as many of its performers including [Kelly Clarkson](/source/Kelly_Clarkson), [Carrie Underwood](/source/Carrie_Underwood) and others.{{cite magazine |url=http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,624955,00.html |title='American Idol' Judges Set to Return |author=Stephen M. Silverman |author-link=Stephen M. Silverman |date=18 October 2002 |access-date=19 May 2012 |magazine=[People](/source/People_(magazine)) |archive-date=1 October 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151001010033/http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,624955,00.html |url-status=dead }} Over 30 million viewers saw [David Cook](/source/David_Cook_(singer)) win the seventh season of ''American Idol'' in May 2008 and when Fuller re-launched the show in 2011 for its 10th season ratings climbed 20% for the finale event. 122.4 million votes were cast, a record for a [reality TV](/source/reality_TV) show.[https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/idol-worship/american-idol-record-122-million-192344 'American Idol': Record 122 Million Votes Cast Following Final Performance Show] ''The Hollywood Reporter''. Retrieved 23 August 2011 In 2004, Fuller created teen musical TV series, ''[I Dream](/source/I_Dream)''. This featured the S Club 7 spin-off band, S Club 8. It also featured Christopher Lloyd of Back to the Future fame. ''I Dream'' ended after thirteen episodes, and was panned by critics.{{Cite news |last=Ronson |first=Jon |date=2003-09-27 |title=Wanna be in their gang? |url=https://www.theguardian.com/music/2003/sep/27/popandrock |access-date=2025-02-11 |work=The Guardian |language=en-GB |issn=0261-3077}} In 2005, Fuller, along with co-creator [Nigel Lythgoe](/source/Nigel_Lythgoe), launched ''[So You Think You Can Dance](/source/So_You_Think_You_Can_Dance_(American_TV_series))'' on the Fox network in the US. The show grew over 16 seasons to become a regular summer hit.{{Cite web|url=https://www.tvinsider.com/801495/so-you-think-you-can-dance-season-16-top-10-photo/|title = Meet 'So You Think You Can Dance' Season 16's Top 10 Dancers (PHOTO)| date=5 August 2019 }} In 2012, Simon Fuller's [XIX Entertainment](/source/XIX_Entertainment) created a new international format with [Jennifer Lopez](/source/Jennifer_Lopez), [Marc Anthony](/source/Marc_Anthony), and [Jamie King](/source/Jamie_King) named Q'Viva! The Chosen, and described as a celebration of Latin culture that screened in 21 territories reaching over 30 million Spanish-speaking TV viewers.[https://deadline.com/2011/04/simon-fuller-jennifer-lopez-and-marc-anthony-team-with-jaime-king-for-trilingual-reality-series-qviva-the-chosen-125961/ Simon Fuller, Jennifer Lopez And Marc Anthony Team With Jamie King For Trilingual Reality Series 'Q’Viva! The Chosen'] ''Deadline Hollywood''. Retrieved 23 August 2011 In December 2016, Norwegian state broadcaster [NRK](/source/NRK) announced that it had concluded a deal with Simon Fuller to produce the English language version of ''[Skam](/source/Skam_(TV_series))''; Fuller later announced a deal with [Facebook](/source/Facebook) to launch the award-winning drama format [SKAM Austin](/source/SKAM_Austin) in the US in 2018.{{Cite news|url=https://variety.com/2017/digital/global/facebook-orders-skam-1202593108/|title=Facebook Orders Online Teen Drama 'Skam'|last=Clarke|first=Stewart|date=2017-10-18|work=Variety|access-date=2018-06-11|language=en-US}}{{Cite news|url=https://variety.com/2016/tv/global/skam-norway-simon-fuller-american-1201937213/|title=Simon Fuller to Bring 'Shame' to American, Canadian Audiences|last=Schwindt|first=Oriana|date=2016-12-09|work=Variety|access-date=2018-06-11|language=en-US}} In 2017, international news media reported on auditions being staged by Fuller's business XIX for [Now United](/source/Now_United), a real time access global pop group being cast in 14 cities around the world.{{Cite news|url=https://urbanasian.com/whats-happenin/2016/12/popgroup-simon-fuller-talks-now-united-and-his-search-inside-mumbai/|title=#PopGroup: Simon Fuller talks 'Now United' and his search inside Mumbai!|date=2016-12-21|work=Urban Asian|access-date=2018-06-11|language=en-US}}{{Cite news|url=https://musica.uol.com.br/noticias/redacao/2016/12/10/sem-glamour-de-reality-dono-da-franquia-idol-busca-estrela-pop-no-brasil.htm|title=Sem glamour de reality, dono da franquia "Idol" busca estrela pop no Brasil|access-date=2018-06-11|language=pt-BR}} In 2019, the ''London Evening Standard'' confirmed that [BBC One](/source/BBC_One) would broadcast ''Serengeti'', a wildlife drama created by Fuller."[https://www.standard.co.uk/stayingin/tvfilm/serengeti-new-nature-documentary-from-simon-fuller-is-a-dramatic-savannah-soap-a4182586.html Serengeti on BBC One: New nature documentary from Simon Fuller is a dramatic savannah soap]", ''London Evening Standard''. Retrieved 8 October 2019 In July 2020, American media reported that "Serengeti", voiced by [Lupita Nyong'o](/source/Lupita_Nyong'o), created by Simon Fuller, was nominated for a [Primetime EMMY Award](/source/Primetime_Emmy_Awards).{{Cite web|url=https://deadline.com/2020/07/emmys-first-time-nominees-cate-blanchett-lupita-nyongo-octavia-spencer-anna-kendrick-zendaya-full-list-1202996978/|title=Emmys: Cate Blanchett, Lupita Nyong'o, Octavia Spencer, Anna Kendrick, Zendaya Among 42 First-Time Nominees|date=28 July 2020}} In February 2023, Fuller created a fictional anthropomorphic animal band/dance troupe, The Meeps, whose debut single is "Love Louder".{{cite web|url=https://www.animationmagazine.net/2023/03/meet-the-meeps-an-animated-animal-band-from-the-creator-of-american-idol/|title=Meet The Meeps, an Animated Animal Band from the Creator of 'American Idol'|last=Milligan|first=Mercedes|website=[Animation Magazine](/source/Animation_Magazine)|date=14 March 2023|accessdate=14 March 2023}} == Impact on music culture == Fuller came to prominence in the 1990s for managing the pop group the [Spice Girls](/source/Spice_Girls).[https://www.theguardian.com/media/2007/jan/14/broadcasting.pop The man with stars in his eyes] ''The Guardian''. Retrieved 30 May 2012 He has managed acts including [Victoria Beckham](/source/Victoria_Beckham), [Annie Lennox](/source/Annie_Lennox), [S Club 7](/source/S_Club), [S Club Juniors](/source/S_Club_8), [Now United](/source/Now_United), [Steven Tyler](/source/Steven_Tyler), [Amy Winehouse](/source/Amy_Winehouse), [Carrie Underwood](/source/Carrie_Underwood), [Kelly Clarkson](/source/Kelly_Clarkson), [Will Young](/source/Will_Young), [Emma Bunton](/source/Emma_Bunton), [Any Gabrielly](/source/Any_Gabrielly), [The Future X](/source/The_Future_X), [Lisa Marie Presley](/source/Lisa_Marie_Presley) and many more in addition to sportsmen [Andy Murray](/source/Andy_Murray) and [Lewis Hamilton](/source/Lewis_Hamilton).{{cite news |title=Annie Lennox behind the Spice Girls' success, says Simon Fuller |url=https://www.theguardian.com/music/2014/jan/14/spice-girls-annie-lennox-simon-fuller |access-date=8 October 2019 |work=[The Guardian](/source/The_Guardian)}} In 2008, Fuller was certified as the most successful British music manager of all time by ''[Billboard](/source/Billboard_(magazine))'' magazine.{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/celebritynews/1987250/Pop-Idol-creator-Simon-Fuller-is-most-successful-British-manager-.html|location=London, UK|work=[The Daily Telegraph](/source/The_Daily_Telegraph) |title=Pop Idol creator Simon Fuller is 'most successful British manager'|date=19 May 2008}} He has managed the career of [Annie Lennox](/source/Annie_Lennox) since the release of her multi-platinum album ''[Diva](/source/Diva_(Annie_Lennox_album))'' in 1991. He has managed hit songwriters and producers, including [Cathy Dennis](/source/Cathy_Dennis), who first met Fuller as the singer of [D Mob](/source/D_Mob) in the 1980s. Under Fuller's guidance, Dennis became the UK's No. 1 female songwriter with a string of hits for artists including [Kylie Minogue](/source/Kylie_Minogue), [Britney Spears](/source/Britney_Spears), [Katy Perry](/source/Katy_Perry), [Pink](/source/Pink_(singer)), [Will Young](/source/Will_Young), and others.{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/celebritynews/2541216/Forgotten-pop-star-Cathy-Dennis-scores-Transatlantic-number-one-as-songwriter.html|location=London, UK|newspaper=[The Daily Telegraph](/source/The_Daily_Telegraph)|first=Anita|last=Singh|title=Forgotten pop star Cathy Dennis scores Transatlantic number one as songwriter|date=11 August 2008}} Fuller managed the [Spice Girls](/source/Spice_Girls) through the peak of their 1990s success and he remains in partnership with the five girls today.{{cite magazine|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=uw0EAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA78|magazine=[Billboard Magazine](/source/Billboard_Magazine)|author=Domenic Pride|title=19 Records' 21st Century Girls|date=12 June 1999|access-date=12 May 2012}}{{cite news|url=https://www.standard.co.uk/showbiz/pop-svengalis-aps100m-windfall-7175359.html|title=Pop svengali's £100m windfall|newspaper=[London Evening Standard](/source/London_Evening_Standard)|date=18 March 2005|author=Jim Armitae|access-date=12 May 2012}} Under Fuller's guidance, the Spice Girls became a marketing phenomenon, rose to chart topper status worldwide and went on to sell over 85 million records.{{cite news |url= https://news.bbc.co.uk/local/leeds/hi/people_and_places/newsid_9377000/9377923.stm |work=BBC News |location=London |title=Spice Girls collection mission for Liz West |date=27 January 2011 |access-date=28 November 2012}}{{cite news |url= http://www.marieclaire.com/celebrity/a21505/geri-halliwell-spice-girls-story/ |work=[Marie Claire](/source/Marie_Claire) |title=My Life as a Spice Girl: Geri "Ginger Spice" Halliwell (Now Horner) Looks Back at the Beginnings of a Pop Culture Phenomenon |date=12 July 2016 |access-date=17 February 2017}} In 2002, Fuller's company discovered 19-year-old [Amy Winehouse](/source/Amy_Winehouse), produced her first award-winning album ''[Frank](/source/Frank_(Amy_Winehouse_album))'' and signed her to [Universal Music](/source/Universal_Music).{{cite news |title=Simon Fuller thanks Simon Cowell and the Beckhams |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/entertainment-arts-13521596 |access-date=31 January 2020 |agency=BBC}} In 2005, 2006, and 2007, the biggest selling music acts in North America ([Kelly Clarkson](/source/Kelly_Clarkson), [Carrie Underwood](/source/Carrie_Underwood), and [Daughtry](/source/Daughtry_(band))) were all managed by Fuller.Andreeva, Nellie. (13 June 2011) [https://deadline.com/2011/06/american-idol-creator-simon-fuller-launches-joint-venture-with-chris-blackwell-139307/ "'American Idol' Creator Simon Fuller Launches Joint Venture With Chris Blackwell"], Deadline.com; retrieved on 22 May 2014. In October 2016, Fuller announced a joint venture with the 4 original members of the Swedish supergroup [ABBA](/source/ABBA) to create a new digital ABBA.{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/music/artists/abba-reunion-on-the-cards-thanks-to-simon-fuller-project|location=London, UK|work=[The Daily Telegraph](/source/The_Daily_Telegraph)|title=Abba reunion on the cards thanks to Simon Fuller}} In August 2020, BBC News announced that Fuller had signed an exclusive agreement with tech firm [TikTok](/source/TikTok).{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-53695911|title=American Idol creator Simon Fuller turns to TikTok talent|work=[BBC News](/source/BBC_News)|date=7 August 2020}} In 2025 Fuller's longterm partnership with Nick Shymansky's Day One Music management company led to a UK No.1 ands global hit for Lola Young.{{Cite web |title=Island's A&R commitment pays off as Lola Young scores first No.1 single with Messy |url=https://www.musicweek.com/labels/read/island-s-a-r-commitment-pays-off-as-lola-young-scores-first-no-1-single-with-messy/091285 |access-date=2025-03-09 |website=www.musicweek.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=2025-01-24 |title=Lola Young's Messy hits number one: My songs are as real as it gets |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/ceq9ge90y1lo |access-date=2025-03-09 |website=BBC News |language=en-GB}} In 2001, while managing [S Club 7](/source/S_Club), Fuller wanted to put together a spin-off band of ‘mini-me’s’ to support S Club 7 on tour. This resulted in a reality-tv type show, ''[S Club Search](/source/S_Club_Search)'', and a new band called S Club Juniors (later known as S Club 8.) The members of the band were aged 10–13. Initially S Club Juniors were only meant to support S Club 7 on one of their tour dates at [Wembley Arena](/source/Wembley_Arena); however the Juniors’ proved to be so popular, that they supported S Club 7 on every tour date and later toured alongside them for the ''S Club United'' tour. S Club 8 also went on to release seven singles, two albums and a TV show, ''I Dream''.{{Cite web |date=2016-05-04 |title=S Club 8: Where are everyone's favourite tween pop stars? |url=https://metro.co.uk/2016/05/04/s-club-8-where-are-everyones-favourite-tween-pop-stars-5859008/ |access-date=2025-02-11 |website=Metro |language=en}} == Fashion activity == Fuller owns significant stakes in several British fashion businesses including Victoria Beckham Ltd. In 2006, Fuller brokered the deal for 19 Entertainment to purchase a majority share in [Storm Model Management](/source/Storm_Model_Management). In 2008, after assembling a highly qualified creative team Fuller launched the [Victoria Beckham](/source/Victoria_Beckham) dress collection at [New York Fashion Week](/source/New_York_Fashion_Week). Since then, Victoria Beckham Limited has grown to become a best-selling high-end fashion brand, stocked in over 400 outlets around the world and winning Brand of The Year at the 2012 and 2014 [British Fashion Awards](/source/British_Fashion_Awards). In 2012, Fuller accompanied [Victoria Beckham](/source/Victoria_Beckham) to launch the business in China.[https://web.archive.org/web/20120929002750/http://www.prweb.com/releases/2012/4/prweb9431590.htm A very special edition: Simon Fuller managed Victoria Beckham stars as Range Rover's new designer], Prweb.com (23 April 2012); retrieved 22 May 2014. In February 2012, XIX Entertainment launched a [David Beckham](/source/David_Beckham) bodywear range in 2,500 [H&M](/source/H%26M) stores around the world.[http://www.vogue.co.uk/news/2011/07/28/david-beckham-for-hm---bodywear David Beckham H&M Underwear Range & Naked Photoshoot (Vogue.com UK)]. Vogue.co.uk (4 April 2012); retrieved 22 May 2014. This was followed in 2015 when Fuller announced a joint venture with Hong Kong-based [Global Brands Group](/source/Global_Brands_Group) Holding Ltd (787) giving Fuller and Beckham ownership of their own apparel business specifically to develop the David Beckham brand and other consumer products.[https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-12-03/simon-fuller-to-brand-it-like-beckham-in-hong-kong-tie-up.html Simon Fuller to brand it like Beckham in Hong Kong tie-up], bloomberg.com, 3 December 2014; accessed 31 July 2015. The first result of this partnership was the Fall 2016 re-launch of the British heritage menswear label Kent & Curwen, which under Beckham, Fuller and 7 Global ownership currently runs 113 stores in 51 cities worldwide.[http://ww.wwd.com/menswear-news/mens-designer-luxury/kent-curwen-makes-debut-under-david-beckham-daniel-kearns-10549068 wwd.com]{{Dead link|date=March 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }} 16 September 2016;{{better source needed|date=January 2026}} In 2019, US media reported that Fuller sold 33% share of the David Beckham business for $50 million after generating revenue of $72.4 million and a profit of $16 million for fiscal 2017.[https://www.forbes.com/sites/mikeozanian/2019/05/10/david-beckham-reportedly-buys-stake-in-his-company-at-150-million-valuation/#164193625e23 “David Beckham Reportedly Buys Stake In His Company At $150 Million Valuation”]. ''Forbes''. Retrieved 8 October 2019 == Sport activity == In 2003, Fuller formed a joint venture partnership with British footballer [David Beckham](/source/David_Beckham) and went onto build a diverse range of business interests in sport, leisure, fashion and entertainment over a period of 16 years that became known as Brand Beckham.{{Cite web |title=Diageo launches David Beckham and Simon Fuller whisky brand Haig Club globally |url=https://www.thedrum.com/news/2014/10/06/diageo-launches-david-beckham-and-simon-fuller-whisky-brand-haig-club-globally |access-date=2022-11-25 |website=The Drum}}{{cite web | url=https://metro.co.uk/2013/05/16/why-david-beckham-owes-much-to-simon-fuller-3766602/ | title=Why Brand Beckham is still a perfect package | date=16 May 2013 }} In 2006 Fuller took on representation of the England football team at Beckham's suggestion{{cite news | url=https://www.theguardian.com/media/2006/mar/06/marketingandpr.19entertainment | title=Simon Fuller wins England contract | newspaper=The Guardian | date=6 March 2006 | last1=Day | first1=Julia }} and the following year Fuller negotiated his five year contract for Beckham to join [LA Galaxy](/source/Los_Angeles_Galaxy).{{cite web | url=https://www.standard.co.uk/lifestyle/london-life/sport-is-where-the-money-is-now-ask-simon-fuller-the-man-behind-the-murray-mint-8697453.html | title=Sport is where the money is now: Ask Simon Fuller, the man behind the | date=9 July 2013 }} In 2013, Fuller and Beckham discussed plans to buy an MLS football team in Miami[http://www.espnfc.com/news/story/_/id/1705374/david-beckham-reveals-purchase-mls-miami-franchise?cc=5739 David Beckham reveals purchase of MLS Miami franchise], EspnFc.com, 5 February 2014; retrieved 22 May 2014 with Beckham thanking Fuller in an interview with CNN: “When I signed my contract my manager Simon Fuller actually got a clause in the contract that enabled me to have a franchise at the end of my playing career”.{{cite web | url=https://edition.cnn.com/2013/10/30/sport/football/football-david-beckham-club-owner/index.html#:~:text=“When%20I%20signed%20my%20contract,stopped%20playing%2C”%20Beckham%20added | title=David Beckham 'passionate' about being club owner | date=30 October 2013 }} Later in the same year Fuller and Beckham launched a new global whisky in partnership with British drinks company [Diageo](/source/Diageo).[http://www.diageo.com/en-ie/newsmedia/pages/resource.aspx?resourceid=2203 Resource Item] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140426234304/http://www.diageo.com/en-ie/newsmedia/pages/resource.aspx?resourceid=2203 |date=26 April 2014 }}, Diageo.com, 8 April 2014; retrieved 22 May 2014. Fuller's plan to deliver Beckham's ownership of an MLS team was announced in January 2018 when Miami was confirmed as 25th MLS team.{{Cite news|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/bobbymcmahon/2018/01/29/miamis-day-finally-comes-for-david-beckham-partners-and-fans-as-mls-name-its-25th-team/#73798d5e4fa6|title=Miami's Day Finally Comes For David Beckham, Partners And Fans As MLS Names 25th Team|last=McMahon|first=Bobby|work=Forbes|access-date=2018-06-11|language=en}}{{Cite web |date=2007-01-11 |title=Football: Beckham confirms LA Galaxy move |url=http://www.theguardian.com/football/2007/jan/11/newsstory.europeanfootball |access-date=2022-11-25 |website=The Guardian |language=en}} The ''[Financial Times](/source/Financial_Times)'' reported that Fuller sold his interests in David Beckham's business in 2019 for a reported £50m.{{Cite news |date=2019-05-10 |title=David Beckham pays $50m for full control of his brand business |work=Financial Times |url=https://www.ft.com/content/5d55d1fa-727d-11e9-bbfb-5c68069fbd15 |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20221210/https://www.ft.com/content/5d55d1fa-727d-11e9-bbfb-5c68069fbd15 |archive-date=10 December 2022 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2022-11-25}} In 2025, ''[The Sunday Times](/source/The_Sunday_Times)'' published an interview in which Fuller explained how he created "Brand Beckham".{{Cite web |last=Kelly |first=Roisin |date=2025-01-05 |title=How David Beckham got so rich, explained by his ex-manager |url=https://www.thetimes.com/life-style/celebrity/article/david-beckham-brand-deals-knighthood-qnhrdrbgq |access-date=2025-01-24 |website=www.thetimes.com |language=en}} In 2009, Fuller took on personal representation of British No.1 tennis player [Andy Murray](/source/Andy_Murray),[https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/tennis/andymurray/7112856/Andy-Murray-banks-on-yoga-and-Simon-Fuller-ahead-of-Australian-Open-final.html Andy Murray banks on yoga and Simon Fuller ahead of Australian Open final], ''The Daily Telegraph''; retrieved 8 June 2012. representing him during his [US Open](/source/US_Open_(tennis)) and [Wimbledon](/source/Wimbledon_Championships) wins and later helping the player to establish his own business. In March 2011, Fuller was announced as the manager of British F1 driver [Lewis Hamilton](/source/Lewis_Hamilton)[https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/9424301.stm Lewis Hamilton joins Simon Fuller management company], ''BBC Sport''; retrieved 11 April 2012 and surprised many when he moved Hamilton from [McLaren](/source/McLaren) and signed him to a long-term contract with the [MercedesAMG](/source/Mercedes-AMG) team. Hamilton won the 2014 F1 World Championship and publicly thanked Fuller for his support.{{Cite web |date=2014-07-25 |title=How Lewis Hamilton's momentous move to Mercedes began in 2006 |url=http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/jul/25/lewis-hamilton-mercedes-mclaren-formula-one |access-date=2022-11-25 |website=the Guardian |language=en}} == Personal life == Fuller married his long-term partner Natalie Swanston in May 2008, and they have three children.{{Cite web |title=Simon Fuller |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/author/simon-fuller/ |access-date=2022-11-25 |website=The Hollywood Reporter |language=en-US}} In May 2025, his wife Natalie filed for divorce.{{Cite web |last=Ganz |first=Jami |date=2025-05-10 |title='American Idol' creator Simon Fuller's wife files for divorce after 17 years |url=https://www.nydailynews.com/2025/05/10/simon-fuller-wife-files-for-divorce-american-idol/ |access-date=2025-09-18 |website=New York Daily News |language=en-US}} He has a portfolio of property including properties in Europe, North America, and South America. In 2014, Fuller was awarded an honorary degree by the [University of Brighton](/source/University_of_Brighton) in recognition for his "contribution to business, entrepreneurship and philanthropy".[https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-sussex-28591219 Simon Fuller awarded an honorary degree by the University of Sussex], bbc.co.uk; accessed 31 July 2015. == Awards and nominations == *2016 Entrepreneur of the Year Britweek Award{{cite web|url=http://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/simon-fuller-to-receive-entrepreneur-of-the-year-award-next-month/|title=Simon Fuller to receive Entrepreneur of the Year Award in L.A next month|date=16 March 2016|work=Music Business Worldwide}} * 2016 Governor's Award Creative Arts Emmy{{cite web|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/race/emmys-american-idol-tapped-2016-920908|title=Emmys: 'American Idol' Tapped for 2016 Governors Award|work=hollywoodreporter.com|date=19 August 2016}} * 2014 Honorary Degree, University of Brighton{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-sussex-28591219|title=Simon Fuller receives Brighton University honorary degree|date=31 July 2014|work=BBC News}} * 2011 Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/entertainment-arts-13521596|title = Fuller thanks Cowell and Beckham|date=24 May 2011|work = BBC News}} * 2007 Top Trend Setter, Forbes Magazine{{cite magazine|url=https://www.forbes.com/style/2007/08/28/trendsetters-influence-style-forbeslife-trends07-cx_lr_0828cool_slide_6.html?thisSpeed=15000 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130123134526/http://www.forbes.com/style/2007/08/28/trendsetters-influence-style-forbeslife-trends07-cx_lr_0828cool_slide_6.html?thisSpeed=15000 |url-status=dead |archive-date=23 January 2013 |title=In Pictures: The Trendsetters |magazine=Forbes |date=28 August 2007 |access-date=2 May 2010 |first=Lacey |last=Rose}} == References == {{Reflist}} == External links == *[https://web.archive.org/web/20090508090710/http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/industry_sectors/media/article5841599.ece "Impresario Simon Fuller shows off talent with $75m performance"], timesonline.co.uk, 4 March 2009 *[https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2008/jun/22/celebrity.media "The 20 most powerful celebrity makers"], ''The Observer Magazine'', 22 June 2008 *[http://www.musicweek.com/story.asp?sectioncode=1&storycode=4401 Music Week "Simon Fuller tops Music Week Top 50 most influential people in UK music industry chart"], musicweek.com, 15 July 2003 *[https://web.archive.org/web/20040314104205/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/arts/main.jhtml?xml=%2Farts%2F2002%2F09%2F28%2Fbmpop28.xml "The Star Maker"], telegraph.co.uk, 28 September 2002 *[https://www.theguardian.com/media/2003/sep/07/citynews.broadcasting "Pop Idol scores a $1bn hit in US market"], guardian.co.uk 7 September 2007 {{Authority control}} {{DEFAULTSORT:Fuller, Simon}} Category:1960 births Category:Living people Category:A&R people Category:British music managers Category:British television producers Category:Now United Category:People educated at Hastings Grammar School Category:People from Hastings Category:S Club 7 Category:Spice Girls Category:Inter Miami CF non-playing staff Category:British television show creators --- Adapted from the Wikipedia article [Simon Fuller](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Simon_Fuller) by Wikipedia contributors ([contributor history](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Simon_Fuller?action=history)). Available under [Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/). Changes may have been made.