X Factor star and Simon Cowell's former bodyguard 'Big Tony' dies aged 64
Bodyguard Tony Adkins, known as Big Tony, has died aged 64.
He worked closely with Simon Cowell and was a frequent face on The X Factor in its heyday.
Adkins' death was confirmed by his cousin, who announced that he died on Easter Sunday.
'It is with great sadness my family would like to announce that my Cousin Big Tony, Simon Cowell's ex bodyguard, passed away on Easter Sunday while on a Rugby Tour', a statement on social media read.
'He was a loveable Rogue and will be missed very much, RIP Big T [sic]'.
Hammersmith and Fulham RFC also shared a tribute: '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.'
Adkins will be remembered by viewers of the ITV talent show for being the tough guy called in to defuse situations when auditions got heated, escorting contestants from the room away from the judges. More Trending
Speaking previously to The Mirror, he lifted the lid on what music mogul Cowell was like to work for.
'Simon was so laid-back and a very nice guy,' he said.
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'He was generous, too. Whenever the show finished – and at Christmas – you'd get an envelope as a thank you. The last one I got had £700 stuffed in it.'
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