Bernard King (television)

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Bernard King (1934 – 20 December 2002) was an Australian television identity.

He starred as the 'third judge' on Australian television talent shows Pot of Gold and New Faces. He was acidic and unforgiving to the contestants, a role which is currently played by Simon Cowell on American Idol. It is likely Cowell's style was influenced by King, who was performing in this manner in the days of black and white television (however King was considered more biting than Cowell). King was a personality that viewers 'loved to hate'.

He made his name as a television chef, on breakfast television and other shows. He also appeared on stage, and wrote regular columns for print media.

In 1982, he earned five million Australian dollars, an astonishing salary for the time and higher than any current Australian television star (when adjusted for inflation). In the end, however, he died penniless.

He was flamboyantly gay and had many lovers. His biographer, Stephanie Clifford-Smith, says "Fidelity wasn't top of his list". [1]