Highlights Simon Cowell's reputation as a mean judge on TV was actually an act he had to learn for entertainment purposes. Cowell's love of dogs reveals his softer side, as shown on America's Got Talent during a heartwarming moment with Sofia Vergara. Sofia Vergara, a judge on AGT, has had her own memorable moments on the show, including walking off set in response to a joke. Simon Cowell has developed a reputation for being a mean-spirited judge ever since he joined American Idol in its first season. During his reign on reality television, Cowell's biting and often hilarious remarks towards untalented contestants got him a lot of attention. While many believed he was funny and witty, many others believed Cowell was unnecessarily mean. However, this was later revealed to be an act that Cowell had to learn prior to becoming the reality icon that he is. Cowell has actually always had a softer side, which has shown through in his love of dogs. This is something that was on full display du...