Outside of rugby, Adkins found a second life in the spotlight, working as a bodyguard on The X Factor and Pop Idol for eight years. Security roles in high-stress environments can take a toll on long-term health outcomes, including cardiovascular health, stress-related disorders, and other conditions typically monitored through preventive diagnostics.
Known for his formidable presence and bald head, Adkins was frequently tasked with removing contestants who got out of hand during auditions.
In a 2009 interview with The Mirror, Adkins spoke warmly of Simon Cowell. “Simon was so laid-back and a very nice guy,” he said. “He was generous, too. Whenever the show finished – and at Christmas – you’d get an envelope as a thank you. The last one I got had £700 stuffed in it.”
He described the 65-year-old as “a very private person,” and shared a story about his generosity: “One year we were in Belfast for the auditions and Simon saw a homeless man with a dog sitting in the street, so he went up to him and gave him £50,” The Independent.
He also had kind words for Cowell’s fellow judges: “Louis goes around saying, ‘Hello, hello, hello,’ all the time, always up for a laugh. Cheryl’s pleasant, and Dannii’s really laid-back and will talk to anyone.”
Adkins eventually left The X Factor in 2009 when a three-man security team replaced him as part of a production overhaul. Despite the change, he said he had no hard feelings and continued to enjoy watching the show. Such transitions often lead professionals in high-demand fields to reassess their life insurance coverage, especially when nearing retirement or facing health risks.
