AsJennifer Tillyhas proudly touted during her run onThe Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, she’s living off ofThe Simpsons’money she earned in her divorce. Well, that might be the case forNatalie Swanstonfollowing her recent divorce fromAmerican IdolcreatorSimon Fuller. Dim the lights, it might be a tough one for Fuller! In a twist no one saw coming,TMZreportsNatalie Swanston has filed for divorce after 16 years of marriage. In the documents for separation,she cited “irreconcilable differences.”
While public divorces are not uncommon in the world of entertainment,what Fuller could lose should Swanston get her way could be damaging.She is said to be seeking joint legal custody of the couple’s three children and is looking for spousal support. It had been previously reported thatSimon Fuller’s estimated worth was upwards of $600 million. Things are about to get a lot more interesting with this plot twist.
Why Simon Fuller Is Worth So Much Money
To say that Simon Fuller is a genius might be an understatement.In the world of pop culture, Simon Fuller has had his hands on some of the most influential projects and people of the past three decades. If you look at his body of work as a businessman, it’s quite extraordinary. He first came to prominence as the manager of theSpice Girlsin the 90s.
Knowing how substantial the group was, his rise in the music industry continued as he worked with some other big artists, includingS Club 7, which allowed him to start his foray into the world of music television. He createdPop Idol, which then spawnedAmerican Idol, and we know how that ended. It’s still a massive hit two decades later. AlongsideNigel Lythgoe, they developedSo You Think You Can Dance?, which also found massive appeal and success. He’s worked closely withDavid Beckham, both in the world of sport and fashion. It makes sense thathe was once listed on Time’s 100 Most Influential People.
Simon Fuller’s success in the world of entertainment has helped him reach a net worth that, should his ex seek it, could hurt his purse strings. In her filing,she has asked the court to block Fuller’s ability to be awarded spousal support.The couple, who wed in 2008, had a prenuptial agreement, but the terms of the agreement have yet to be released. Though much of Fuller’s wealth was accumulated before they were wed, Swanston would be entitled to share his earnings made afterwards.
According to theDaily Mail, a source revealed that the couple was enduring a strained relationship, continuing to say, “‘There has been much talk about Simon living on his own for a while.Things haven’t been great,but now Natalie has taken their separation to the next level and said it’s time for divorce. Simon’s life has changed dramatically from the days when he managed the Beckhams. He has retreated to a quieter life.”
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Simon Fuller’s Impact Continues Beyond ‘American Idol’
Despite his current situation, Simon Fuller is looking for the next big thing in Hong Kong.He has launched a search for the next big pop starwith a “Hong Kong spirit.” The winner will go on to join his international pop group,Now United. In the announcement, he shared, “I am excited to be collaborating with Hong Kong and the Jockey Club to create something aspirational and positive.I believe there is an important opportunity to bring inspiring and joyful entertainment to Hong Kong and Horse Racing. This is an incredible city full of potential with so many stunning iconic locations to share with the world.”
Simon Fuller has continued to change the face of music thanks to his magic touch. With the success ofAmerican Idolstill reigning supreme, Fuller’s reach toward expanding his international pop group into Hong Kong makes sense. His eye for seeing young talent is why he is where he is now. He discoveredAmy Winehouseand helped her launch her career. He helpedKelly ClarksonandCarrie Underwoodfollowing their victories on American Idol. In the world of sport, he was part ofAndy Murray’s rise in tennis andLewis Hamilton’s rise in Formula One. His impact is far-reaching, and this divorce could easily hit him where it hurts.
American Idol
