**Tributes Paid to ‘Big Tony’: Simon Cowell’s Former X Factor Bodyguard Dies at 64**
Tony Adkins, fondly remembered by many as ‘Big Tony’ from his time on The X Factor, has died at the age of 64. Known for his towering presence and loyal service as Simon Cowell’s trusted bodyguard, Adkins reportedly passed away suddenly whilst on a rugby tour abroad over the Easter weekend.
His family shared the heartbreaking news in a statement posted to social media, accompanied by a cherished photograph. “It is with great sadness my family would like to announce that my cousin, Big Tony, Simon Cowell’s ex bodyguard, passed away on Easter Sunday while on a Rugby Tour,” wrote his cousin. “He was a loveable rogue and will be missed very much. RIP Big T.”
Adkins’ passing has led to an outpouring of tributes, both from those who worked alongside him on national television and from the world of amateur sport, where he was an active and much-loved participant. The Hammersmith and Fulham Rugby Football Club, with which he was touring at the time of his death, expressed their sorrow in a heartfelt message. “It is with immense sadness that the club pays tribute to a true gent and great Hammer, Tony Adkins, who passed away whilst on tour with the club in Poland on Easter Sunday,” the club’s official website announced.
During his years with The X Factor, Tony Adkins was responsible for maintaining order during the show’s often frenetic auditions. His role frequently included escorting excitable or upset contestants from the audition room, all while retaining a calm and reliable presence that earned him respect behind the scenes. Former colleagues recall his professionalism and camaraderie, qualities invaluable in the high-pressure atmosphere of reality television.
Adkins himself once spoke candidly about his experiences working for Simon Cowell. In an interview with the Mirror, he described Cowell as “laid-back and a very nice guy”, noting also the music mogul’s generosity. He recalled annual gestures of appreciation from Cowell, saying, “Whenever the show finished — and at Christmas — you’d get an envelope as a thank you. The last one I got had £700 stuffed in it.”
Cowell’s fastidious nature and routine were also a source of amusement for Adkins. He revealed, “Simon is vain — he does his hair all the time. If there are five breaks in filming then Simon will do his hair five times. And I think he has about 20 identical T-shirts. I remember once he had a hole in one, so he just reached into a bag and pulled out another from a big pile.”
Beyond his role as Cowell’s bodyguard, Adkins shared anecdotes about other X Factor judges. He painted a picture of Louis Walsh as jovial and ever-upbeat, and described Cheryl Cole as “pleasant” while praising Dannii Minogue’s easy-going nature. Tony reminisced about the judges’ friendly rivalries, saying, “All the judges used to get on but they’d wind each other up, too… If Simon thought Louis was being mean about an auditionee he’d say, ‘Louis, go and apologise,’ but Louis would refuse. So Simon would ask him again to say sorry but Louis would just say no — and they’d just carry on like that, winding each other up. But they were really good friends.”
The news of Tony Adkins’ death has resonated with many who recall his warmth and the light-hearted spirit he brought to his varied roles. He is survived by loved ones and friends who have described him as a gentle giant and a cherished character. As those who knew him gather to pay their respects, Adkins’ legacy as both a devoted guardian and endearing presence on The X Factor — as well as his commitment to grassroots rugby — will remain part of his enduring memory.
In the competitive worlds of show business and sport, the loss of a behind-the-scenes hero like Tony Adkins highlights the invaluable role played by those who work tirelessly to support others, often beyond the limelight. His passing leaves a void that will be keenly felt by many across both industries.