Let’s be real. If you’ve ever watched America’s Got Talent or the golden era of American Idol, you’ve probably spent a few minutes squinting at the screen, wondering why Simon Cowell occasionally looks like he’s towering over a contestant, only to look distinctly average-sized when he’s walking onto the stage. It is one of those Hollywood mysteries that just won't go away. We see him in those signature high-waisted trousers and chunky boots, and the brain starts doing math.
So, how tall is Simon Cowell, really?
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The short answer is 5 feet 9 inches (about 175 cm). But in the world of celebrity measurements, nothing is ever quite that simple. There is the "official" height, the "red carpet" height, and then there is the "standing next to a 6-foot-4 Conan O'Brien" height. Simon is the king of presentation, and his stature is no exception.
The 5'9" Reality and the "Booster" Controversy
For years, the internet has debated whether Simon is actually pushing 5’9” or if he’s secretly closer to 5’7”. Honestly, he’s probably exactly what he says he is, but he uses every trick in the book to maximize it.
The Famous Cuban Heels
It is no secret that Simon loves a "lift." He has been photographed countless times wearing what many call "cuban heels" or elevator shoes. These aren't just your standard Chelsea boots. They are specifically designed with a thicker sole and an internal lift that can add anywhere from two to three inches to a person’s frame.
If you see him on a red carpet looking 5’11”, you’ve got to look at the footwear. He’s been mocked for it by his own co-stars—David Walliams, in particular, never missed an opportunity to point out Simon's "special" shoes during their time together on Britain's Got Talent.
The Sit-Down Trick
Ever notice how Simon always seems to be the most "imposing" person at the judging table? It isn't just his personality. Back in 2013, reports surfaced—complete with photos—showing that Simon used a booster seat (basically a fancy cushion) during the BGT auditions.
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- Piers Morgan once joked that Simon "grows between shows."
- Audience members have spotted the "three pillows" he reportedly uses to sit higher than the other judges.
- The goal? To ensure he isn't literally looking up at taller judges like David Walliams (who is 6'1") or Howard Stern (a massive 6'5").
Why Everyone Thinks He’s Shorter (or Taller)
The confusion usually comes from who he is standing next to. In Hollywood, height is relative. When Simon stands next to Ryan Seacrest (who is about 5'7" or 5'8"), Simon looks like the "big boss." But put him next to a professional athlete or a tall host, and the illusion fluctuates.
The Weight Loss Factor
Recently, Simon’s height has become even more of a talking point because of his dramatic physical transformation. He’s lost a massive amount of weight—roughly 60 pounds (4 stone) over the last few years.
When a person gets leaner, they often look taller. It’s an optical illusion. By cutting out sugar, dairy, and gluten, and sticking to a regimen of 150 push-ups a day and lots of cycling on his e-bikes, Simon has elongated his silhouette. He no longer has the "bulk" that can make a 5'9" frame look stocky.
Simon Cowell vs. Other Celebs: The Tape Measure Test
If you want to see how he actually stacks up, you have to look at the "side-by-side" evidence from over the years.
- vs. David Walliams (6'1"): Even with his biggest boots, Simon is clearly shorter than Walliams. In many photos, he reaches about David’s eye level.
- vs. Howard Stern (6'5"): On AGT, there was no hiding it. Stern made Simon look quite small, which is likely why the "booster seat" became such a necessity for the table shots.
- vs. His Son, Eric: This is the most recent metric. As of early 2026, Eric Cowell is growing like a weed. Recent photos show Eric approaching his dad’s shoulder height. Give it another two years, and Simon might be the second-tallest man in his own house.
The Verdict on the Mogul's Height
Basically, Simon Cowell is a solid 5 feet 9 inches. He isn't "short" by global standards, but in the land of 6-foot leading men, he clearly feels the need for a little boost. Whether it’s the heels, the high-waisted pants (which create a longer leg line), or the seat cushions, he knows how to command a room.
The takeaway? If you want to look taller, take a page from the Cowell playbook:
- Invest in quality boots with a slight heel.
- Watch your posture. Simon’s recent focus on Pilates and core strength helps him stand straighter.
- Tailoring is everything. His clothes are fitted to make his proportions look more balanced.
Stop worrying about the number on the tape measure. Simon has proven that you can be 5'9" and still be the biggest presence in any room. If you're looking to upgrade your own presence, start with your posture and maybe a decent pair of boots—just maybe skip the three-pillow booster seat if you're going to a business meeting.
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Focus on your core strength and clothing fit to maximize your natural height. Look into low-impact exercises like reformer Pilates or daily push-ups to improve your standing frame.