Simon Cowell’s former X Factor colleague Tony Adkins tragically dies while on tour, age 64

X Factor favourite Tony Adkins, known affectionately as ‘Big Tony’, has died at the age of 64.

Mr Adkins was best known for working as Simon Cowell’s personal bodyguard for eight years during his time on The X Factor, where he became a familiar face to fans of the show.

Often seen stepping in to de-escalate tense moments, viewers will remember him calmly escorting emotional or unruly contestants out of the audition room when things didn’t go to plan.

After his time on the hit talent show, Mr Adkins gave fans a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse of life with Cowell during an interview with The Mirror.

“He’s a very private person. He doesn’t give much away. You never see him drunk or out of control,” Mr Adkins said of Cowell.

“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 the glitz of television, Mr Adkins was also remembered as a dedicated clubman and friend. Hammersmith and Fulham RFC, where he was a beloved member, confirmed he passed away while on tour with the club in Poland on Easter Sunday.

In a tribute shared on their website, the club wrote: “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”.

Tributes have since poured in online from fans and former colleagues, remembering Mr Adkins for his calm presence, big heart, and iconic appearances during one of Britain’s most memorable TV talent eras.