America's Got Talent judge Simon Cowell appeared on The Interview by The New York Times on November 29, 2025. Hosted by Lulu Garcia-Navarro, Simon talked about various interesting incidents, including the late Liam Payne.Recalling one of his meetings with Liam, Simon shared their conversation. He told Liam that music was not everything. Hence, he should not let it run his life. They also talked about Liam being a dad, among other things.Further in the interview, Simon shared his concerns over what could have been in certain situations. He mentioned whether he could have done anything more, which could have changed a few things, including Liam's passing."I remember saying, 'Music is not everything. Don't let it run your life anymore. Find something else that you are passionate about. You ask yourself that question: 'Could I have done anything more? What would've happened to Liam if he hadn't been in the band?" stated Simon Cowell.America's Got Talent judge Simon Cowell reflects on his bond and relationship with the late Liam Payne View this post on Instagram Instagram PostIn his recent interview with The New York Times, AGT's Simon Cowell recalled his closeness with the late singer and musician, Liam Payne.Liam had a son, Bear, with his ex-partner, Cheryl. Simon recalled his conversation with Liam about fatherhood. After his passing, Simon reached out to Liam's parents. He told them about how proud he was of everything that the late singer had achieved."I wish I could turn back the clock, of course. When I spoke to him that day, I felt really good about him. I thought, 'Wow, you seem in a really good place'," recalled Simon.Liam Payne's tragic demise took place in October 2024 while he was in a hotel in Buenos Aires. It was due to his fall from the hotel balcony. A year later, Simon Cowell reflected on Liam's death and recalled when he received the tragic news."Somebody who works with me very closely came into my room. I was up in the north of England, and I could tell by the look on her face that she was upset. She said, 'Sit down.' And she told me," shared Simon. View this post on Instagram Instagram PostAmerica's Got Talent judge mentioned that he felt similar to what he felt after hearing his dad's passing. He added that it was difficult to express how he felt, but it was a shock."At that point, you're not really thinking clearly. I just remember saying: I really need to speak to his mum and dad," added Simon.Sharing more about Liam Payne's family, Simon talked about one of his meetings. It took place a year before the singer's passing. He told Liam that he had a choice in his life. They had a conversation about Music and how there was more to life than music itself.Simon talked about spending time with Liam as his friend. That was the reason why the news of his demise shocked him that much.Fans can stream America's Got Talent episodes on NBC.