Simon Cowell and Pete Waterman Launch New Reality Show on Netflix

Simon Cowell has reunited with Pete Waterman to develop a new reality television series titled The Next Act, set to premiere on Netflix in December 2023. The duo, known for their successful partnership on the iconic show Pop Idol, will focus on assembling a new boy band throughout the six-part series.

Waterman expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “I have been doing some filming with Simon for the show. It’s great fun to be doing something together again. We are best mates.” His excitement about participating in the series is evident, as he quickly agreed to take part, saying, “If Simon asked me to walk across hot coals, I’d do it.”

Reviving a Winning Formula

The collaboration between Cowell and Waterman dates back to their time on Pop Idol, which aired from 2001 to 2003. The show became a significant success on ITV, drawing in millions of viewers and launching the careers of numerous successful artists. Reflecting on their earlier experiences, Waterman noted, “It was an amazing time. Everyone was negative about it. My own staff told me I shouldn’t do it. But I wanted to do it. I thought going on the road with Simon would be a laugh.”

The dynamic between Cowell and Waterman has often been described as a love-hate relationship, which Waterman believes contributed to the chemistry that made Pop Idol a hit. “That’s what made Pop Idol work,” he added.

A New Chapter for Cowell

The Next Act promises to offer viewers an inside look at the process of creating a boy band, from the initial casting calls to the release of their debut single. Netflix executives have high hopes for the series, aiming to capture the same magic that Cowell has repeatedly demonstrated in launching successful musical acts.

“Music mogul and record executive Simon Cowell has single-handedly created some of the biggest music superstars in the world,” a spokesperson for Netflix said earlier this year. “In the brand-new docuseries, cameras follow him as he sets out to do it once again. This is an all-access pass for viewers to catch every moment of Cowell’s next chapter. Will he strike gold and break industry records once again?”

As anticipation builds for the release, fans of Cowell, Waterman, and music enthusiasts alike are eager to see how this latest collaboration unfolds. With their history of success, Cowell and Waterman are poised to deliver another engaging and entertaining show that resonates with audiences around the world.