Simon Cowell: I’m overwhelmed

Simon Cowell is “overwhelmed with gratitude” for the support he has received since his mother’s death.

The music mogul’s beloved mother Julie passed away on Sunday aged 89 after suffering a stroke. She had been ill for some time but the news was still devastating for the 55-year-old, who promptly cancelled the first round of auditions for the new series of The X Factor in Manchester on Monday. While the family released a statement soon after the news of Julie’s death was announced, Simon finally spoke out on social media to thank fans for their support during such a difficult time.

“My family lost someone very special on Sunday. My Mum. I am overwhelmed with gratitude for all of the kind messages received. Thank you. X (sic)” he wrote to his 12.2 million Twitter followers on Tuesday night.

While the auditions were postponed on Monday and Tuesday, it has been revealed that they will resume on Wednesday after the brave star had some time to grieve with his family. He is set to return with his new judging panel; Cheryl Fernandez-Versini, Nick Grimshaw and Rita Ora.

“Simon needs time to get over the death of Julie, it is a huge loss for him and his family,” a source told British newspaper The Mirror. “But at the same time, he knows how many people are involved in the X Factor and doesn’t like to let people down. Julie was a big fan of the show, so it feels right to take some time out and then come back and work on the show later in the week.”

An extra session has been added on Thursday to make up for the time lost on Monday and Tuesday.