Simon Cowell reportedly mulling Jewish conversion
Music mogul plans a ‘secret’ trip to Israel, ahead of possible marriage to Jewish girlfriend, reports British tabloid
British music mogul Simon Cowell, 54, is considering joining the tribe, the Mirror reported on Thursday.
The X-Factor judge, who has a Jewish father but was raised Roman Catholic, has reportedly been inspired by his Jewish soon-to-be baby mama (and maybe soon-to-be wife) Lauren Silverman. The couple’s baby is due in February.
It looks like Cowell’s taking the whole thing quite seriously, having planned a “secret” trip to Israel because he wants to make a “more informed decision” before committing to the faith, a source told the British tabloid.
He also recently made a $150,000 donation to the Friends of the Israel Defense Forces at a fundraiser in Beverly Hills, and is considering taking up traditional Israeli folk dance lessons ahead of a possible wedding.
According to the FIDF — a New York City-headquartered nonprofit that raises millions for the well-being of Israeli men and women in uniform — Cowell was on hand for an event in October, which was also attended by Grammy-Award winning singer Lionel Richie, who serenaded the crowd.
The event brought in a total of $20 million, including a single $4.5-million donation from the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews, according to the Jewish daily Forward.
Earlier reports indicated that Cowell had broken up with Jewish socialite Silverman before he knew she was carrying his child.
She had previously been married to Cowell’s close friend, real estate tycoon Andrew Silverman.
Debra Kamin also contributed to this report.
The Times of Israel Community.