Simon Cowell : Speaking The Truth or Just Plain Rude

Well, I think he can be a little rude, but his non-use of tact at times is certainly a draw. It wouldn't be as interesting to watch. At the same time he derfinitely tells it like he sees it, and it's nice that he gives an honest opinion and doesn't sugar coat what he says.

I think he's right about some things but usually he's just doing it to be mean...and to draw more negative attention to himself

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All I know is the first group of 8 were incredible.. cant wait till next week!

It was a surprise. :) I kept thinking throughout the beginning of the season how much the talent stunk this year compared to the past seasons, but WOW! Tonight they were on fire!

As for Simon...I think he does both. He tells the truth, and if saying what is true is rude, he doesn't care.

I almost always agree with what Paula says. I really don't like Randy's comments...somehow I always disagree with him. He can be harsh too though. He's no Simon, but he's far from a Paula too.

There is a fine, fine line...

between honest and viscious.

Simon is the only reason I watch that show.
He is a great businessman, and I respect him for what he has done.

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It's actually very easy to be honest and tactful simultaneously. But let's be honest, tact does not provide ratings. Look at the Fame series from last season. The public wants vicious and rude behavior. Shows like Survivor and Big Brother wouldn't have made it one season if it wasn't for all the cat fights and backstabbing. It's true that most performers do need honest opinions in order to know what they need to work on or if they have what it takes to pursue a career in entertainment. However, they do not need the vile comments and cruel behavior of Simon or anyone else. Especially when it is broadcast on national television. I can only imagine how it must feel to go home after being mangled like that. Simon is a good businessman who knows what sells. Unfortunately, the public actually buys it. It's pretty depressing. I don't find any respect in banking off cruelty and generating more "pop" clones.

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JohnPopa - I define Simon's behavior as cruel. And I find cruelty to be completely inexcusable. I have never been nor have the desire to be a contestant on the show. The losers don't define cruelty. Simon's behavior does. He chooses to behave that way. It serves no purpose other than to boost ratings and get him some press. He already admitted that they purposely choose some of the worst applicants to spice up the show and improve ratings early in the season.

Personally, I preferred the Fame series. Each contestant had to sing and dance and perform as an ensemble. The judges were never heartless or rude. The criticism was always constructive. And the show was always live. Debbie Allen really seemed to care about each individual and even if they didn't make it, urged them to keep trying and working on their talents. I would like to see that one come back.

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In fairness to Simon, I should hope the people who audition know by now that what Simon has to say to them may hurt.

RacerChiquita... stop reading my mind!

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"We love to see people coddled"???? Obviously, we don't or this show would not be as successful as it is. Nor would Survivor, The Real World, Big Brother, or any other show that relies upon people treating each other like crap in order to get ratings. You think Simon is not cruel and has never said anything out of line. I completely disagree 100%, but that's just a difference of opinions.

"Those that can't take him don't have what it takes anyway." What a load of crap. He's not the be-all end-all of the entertainment industry, nor is his word scripture in the pop Bible.

Now I'm not saying he's not supportive of his personal favorites (who all sound mostly similar), but his negative remarks are just so unnecessarily over the top. I completely agree that the contestants should not take it seriously because it's mostly for show, but you never know what kind of personality you'll be dealing with and what impact it may have on the individual. This may be the one shot for these kids and to verbally flog them in front of millions of viewers on national television is inexcusable, whether people expect it or not. I just hope he can use his millions one day to buy an ounce of tact. Unfortunately, tact is considered a rare antiquity these days and therefore is difficult to find.

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I like it that hes truthfull with everyone. its a freshness that some people shouldnt be hurt by, but use them as things to work on.

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