From protecting the world’s biggest stars to being one of the most recognisable faces at London Fashion Week, Simon Newton has carved a bold, multi-hyphenate career. Once known for shadowing celebrities like Michael Jackson and Kendall Jenner, he’s now making waves in film and fashion—with a clothing brand, multiple movie roles, and a growing presence in style media. His journey from bodyguard to businessman and actor is anything but ordinary. We caught up with Simon to hear more about his evolution and what’s coming next.
You’ve protected some of the most recognisable names in the world. What drew you to the world of private security in the first place?
I left the British Army after the Iraq war 2003. While I was serving I was offered a job with a Private Security Company looking after US oil workers back in Iraq. I took the job and left the army. That was the start of my 17 year private security career at the age of 24.
From Michael Jackson to Kendall Jenner – how do you approach security differently when it comes to protecting global celebrities?
The main difference between celebrities and anyone else you may look after is they’re known. Due to their following and fan base, security is carried out slightly differently in order to keep celebrities safe from large build up of crowds, over excited fans or at times stalkers.
British Vogue called you the ‘Real Style Star of London Fashion Week.’ How did fashion become part of your professional identity?
As a bodyguard you need to dress appropriately for the days activities you’re carrying out. This can depend on who you are looking after, where and what you are doing. When working with celebrities I didn’t wear anything different to what I would wear if I was working or not. Outfits ranged from jeans, polo shirts and trainers to a full dinner suit and black tie.
Was there a moment you realised your style was getting almost as much attention as your high-profile clients?
A number of magazines ran articles on me and my style at the time. But back when I was working as a bodyguard I wasn’t Known to the public so they didn’t know my name. When I was a bodyguard I never went looking for attention, all I was after was a day’s work.
You’ve transitioned from bodyguard to business owner. What inspired you to launch Askari Secure, and what sets it apart?
Askari Secure Ltd was set up in 2010 to service any Private Security requirements in London and Europe. We deal with a number of 5 star hotels, high end events, bodyguards and private residents to name a few. Although my input in the security industry is minimal today I am still the owner of Askari Secure. I have an office in London Westminster that takes care of Askari Secure’s day to day planning and operations.
You’ve worked on action films and doubled for Dave Bautista in Final Score. How did that move into acting come about?
I had worked on a number of films before working on Final Score and doubling for Dave. However I think Final Score was the film that made me want to go to acting school and pursue acting as a full time career. Towards the end of 2018 I left the Private Security Industry to go back to school and become an actor.
What’s more intense – a red carpet with A-listers or a high-octane film set? How do you prepare for each?
There is always a lot more expected from me now being an actor. Time is money when you’re on set and I have worked alongside some of the best actors the world has to offer. So it’s important that I get it right. A red carpet with an A-lister used to be relatively easy for me. I was a bodyguard for 17 years and most of what I had to do was second nature.
You’ve built a career in multiple industries. What’s next for you, and where do you see your brand evolving in the future?
Currently most of my time is split between film and fashion. My clothing brand Simon Newton London is about to drop a new range of retro t-shirts. I have just finished working on Rise of the Footsoldier Retribution where I play a defected Bosnian soldier called Maxim. I still have three movies to complete before christmas, however due to them still being in pre production unfortunately I’m not allowed to mention the names.