Years after first meeting Adam Lambert on American Idol, Simon Cowell had a very different message for the singer when they reunited on America’s Got Talent: All-Stars in 2023.
Lambert appeared as a guest performer during the season finale, joining the Bello Sisters for a spectacular performance that combined his powerhouse vocals with their high-flying acrobatic act.
But it was Cowell’s reaction afterward that created one of the episode’s most touching moments.
Adam Lambert and Simon Cowell Reunite
Lambert and Cowell first crossed paths in 2009 during the eighth season of American Idol.
Although Lambert did not win the competition, his time on the show launched a major music career. His debut album, For Your Entertainment, earned a Grammy nomination, and he later became known for his powerful voice and commanding stage presence.
He also went on to tour with Queen as part of Queen + Adam Lambert, establishing himself alongside the legendary rock band.
Cowell’s opinion of Lambert evolved throughout their time on American Idol. Initially, the judge was not particularly convinced by Lambert’s theatrical approach, but his view changed as the competition progressed.
By the 2009 finale, Cowell was openly praising the singer.
He told Lambert: “Over the entire season, you’ve been one of the best, most original contestants we’ve ever had on the show.”
Cowell also said that the purpose of a show like American Idol was to discover a worldwide star and that he truly believed they had found one in Lambert.
Lambert Takes the Stage With the Bello Sisters
More than a decade later, Lambert returned to Cowell’s world when he appeared on America’s Got Talent: All-Stars.
For the finale, Lambert teamed up with the Bello Sisters for an unusual performance that saw the sisters performing their breathtaking aerial act while Lambert supplied the vocals.
After the performance, host Terry Crews asked Lambert whether he had ever performed alongside an act like theirs before.
Lambert joked that he had not — and even blamed his glittery platform boots for creating a potential problem.
He explained that because he was already extra tall, the boots meant there was only so high Aidan could go with them.
The lighthearted exchange gave way to a much more emotional moment when Crews asked Cowell for his thoughts.
Simon Cowell Has a Message for Adam
Cowell began by pointing out that he and Lambert had known each other for a long time.
Lambert immediately laughed and told him, “I’m having major deja vu.”
But this time, Lambert did not have to worry about Cowell delivering harsh criticism.
Smiling, Cowell said: “This time I’m going to be nice.”
He then explained exactly why.
“Adam, you are honestly one of the nicest people in show business I’ve ever met. Such a star. I’m so proud of everything you’ve achieved. Thank you.”
The unexpected praise clearly touched Lambert, who responded with a warm smile as Cowell celebrated how far his former American Idol contestant had come.
From a complicated relationship during Idol to a heartfelt reunion years later, the exchange offered a full-circle moment for both men — and a chance for Cowell to publicly acknowledge the star he had recognized in Lambert all those years ago.