Simon Cowell broke down in tears as he talked about his mum Julie for the first time since her death two weeks ago.
Speaking to the Sun, the X Factor head judge said he hadn't wanted to burden anyone with his worries about her failing health.
"She'd been ill for a very long time. It really happened last year and it was a tough, tough period," he said.
"But I didn't want to burden anyone else with my problem. That's why I never talked about it."
Speaking about why he'd only taken two days off work after she died, Simon pointed out that filming was a good distraction, adding that it's what Julie would have wanted.
"It sounds corny but it's exactly what she would have wanted me to do as she loved what I did. When it came to work, she would say, 'Get back and do what you enjoy'," he said.
And he said the outpouring of love and support on Twitter was "incredible", saying that was what helped get him through.
Simon also opened up about his protegy Louis Tomlinson's recent baby news, explaining that he'd told the One Direction singer exactly what to do when Louis turned to him.
"I said to him, 'You man up. You're fortunate because you're in a position to be able to look after the baby and not worry too much about that.'
"But I also told him, 'I've received bad calls in my life but this is not one of them. This is your business but I'm here for you'."
N'aww.
X Factor 2015 fashion gallery
x factor fashion gallery
Cheryl Fernandez-Versini
Super-slim Chez rocked a 60s vibe in scalloped Red Valentino, Mary-Janes and a bouffy beehive.
Caroline Flack
Fresh from crowning Max and Jess winners of Love Island Caz Flack got her (very good) legs out in a leather mini and hipster Bella Freud knit. We love this hair style on Flack, so fun.
Rochelle Humes
How babe-in did Rochelle look in her orange suede Victoria Beckham dress? Expertly styled- up with a skinny black belt and strappies. Our fave.
Rita Ora
A loud Versace mini with sequins and pointy stilettos gave Rita a totally 80s feel. That sleek high pony works, too.