Cutler speaks to Simon Newton, bodyguard for the likes of Bella Hadid, Kendall Jenner and the legend himself the late Michael Jackson. Simon talks staying fit physically and mentally, becoming an Actor and how he would like to play the next 007.
Simon has his own security company, Askari Secure Ltd, based in central London and has starred in a number of movies and TV shows including Final Score, where he doubled for Dave Bautista, Green Zone Thriller and Sherlock Holmes a Game of Shadows. He currently has 2 more films in the pipeline.
We imagine being in the security business can be an adventurous job, you must have seen a lot of action in your career both overseas and in the Uk, is there anything that particularly stands out in your mind?
Working overseas can often be a lot different to working in the UK. While I was working in the Middle East often there were attacks on Westerners and in my time working in that part of the world many of the private security personnel unfortunately lost their lives. In the UK the risk is obviously a lot lower, I didn’t really encounter any problems in the UK. Most of what a good bodyguard will do is limit this risk of anything happening.
It sounds like a tough gig that not just anyone could do, how do you stay fit both physically and mentally?
Physical fitness is a very important part of any professional bodyguard’s day. For me I would always train 5 to 7 days a week. Often in the gym or maybe a run outside. Obviously when you are working long hours it can be difficult to find time but there is always time do to something every day even if it’s not a full workout. Mentally I find keeping fit and healthy improves mental wellbeing. A good clean diet and minimizing alcohol consumption also helps this. Working in higher stress environments unfortunately I find its either for you or it isn’t.
Do you have any tips for aspiring bodyguards or for the general public on how to keep themselves safe?
There are several things you are taught in training but also pick up over many years of doing the job. Tips for the public particularly in major city’s I would say wearing headphones and using a mobile phone while walking can often lead to trouble. Being always aware of your surroundings when walking in the street is important to avoid bag or mobile phone theft. Many other simple things you can do, make sure your bag is closed and secure, when using cash points be more aware of people around you, and the same when you pay for anything in shops or restaurants etc. These are all things that everyone can do to minimise them running into trouble on a daily basis.
How did you transition to acting?
I have been involved in film work since 2010, however was limited to my involvement due to still being a working bodyguard. In 2019 I decided to leave the industry to pursue a career in acting and in 2021 I finished a diploma in screen acting. I now have full representation and am currently working on a number of projects.
What would be your dream role to play?
I would think 007 would be a dream role. A very tough part to cast for in an iconic British film.
We hear you. Thanks for chatting to us Simon.
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