In 2025, the renowned music tycoon embarked on a quest to discover the next breakout boy band through his Netflix documentary series, titled “Simon Cowell: The Next Act.” The series culminated on December 10, sparking anticipation among young fans for the band’s upcoming debut single. However, the history of failed bands under the record executive’s guidance leaves many feeling apprehensive.
Simon Cowell achieved significant success with iconic groups like One Direction, who captured global acclaim. Notably, he also shaped the careers of two prominent girl bands from his X Factor ventures: Little Mix, the show’s inaugural winners, and Fifth Harmony, originating from the US version of X Factor.
Despite the chart-topping achievements of these bands, their eventual disbandment underscores the prevalence of failures amidst Cowell’s endeavors in the music industry. Notwithstanding his notable successes, the shadow of unsuccessful ventures persists, a fact that some music enthusiasts may overlook.
Rak-Su emerged as the first all-male group to triumph on X Factor under Cowell’s mentorship in 2017. The group’s R&B-infused original compositions resonated with audiences, propelling their winning single, “Dimelo,” to a commendable second-place position on the charts. Subsequently, Rak-Su parted ways with Cowell’s Syco label, opting for independent pursuits that have since yielded modest results.
Initially a quartet, Rak-Su now comprises three members – Ashley, Jamaal, and Myles – who continue to release music independently and occasionally grace the stage with performances.
In a reminiscent venture in 2019, Cowell launched “The X Factor: The Band,” resulting in the formation of a girl group named Real Like You, later rebranded as RLY. Despite clinching victory with their original track “Be Like Them,” they notably became the first X Factor UK winners not to release a winner’s single.
Over time, the group faced internal challenges, leading to its dissolution in June 2024 as members pursued solo endeavors. A similar fate befell Stereo Kicks, a conglomerate of solo acts mentored by Louis Walsh on X Factor in 2014, which concluded in a fifth-place finish.
One of Stereo Kicks’ standout talents, Bibby, transitioned to a new venture known as New Hope Club, embarking on a brief hiatus in 2025 following notable successes touring with artists like Sabrina Carpenter.
Union J, emerging from the ninth series of The X Factor, represented Cowell’s next major project after the triumphs with bands. Initially known as Triple J, the group underwent a lineup change, adding George Shelley to the mix. Despite finishing fourth on the show, Union J garnered success post-X Factor, with their debut single “Carry You” reaching the UK charts’ top 10 before the group disbanded.
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