judge shared a rare update with fans as he took to with a sweet photo of his son, Eric. In the photo, the youngster was all smiles as he embraced a dog, who appeared to be enamoured by the 11-year-old.

The upload was part of a carousel of snaps, some of which also included the TV icon as he posed alongside the duo for a mini photoshoot at the park. The 65-year-old opened up about their father-son bond in the caption with simple and heartfelt descriptions. Summarising each photo, Simon penned: "1. Love, 2. Even more love, 3. It was a long walk."

The post was inundated with praise from thousands of his 2.3million followers, including one who gushed: "I absolutely adore the strong bond you have with Eric."

As a second shared: "Can't believe how big he is, I remember when he was tiny!"

Another fan commented: "He's almost as tall as you! You're such a good dad Simon. It's obvious to everyone."

"Being a parent changes your life in the best way possible! Love seeing the happiness fatherhood brings you," penned a fourth.

Simon has been open about his journey through fatherhood and how Eric, who is his only child, dramatically changed his life.

The TV executive previously shared: "Twenty years ago, I would have said I didn't think I was going to have kids because I thought I was too old.

"So when I got the news I was going to be a dad - and the first time I saw his scan - I was literally obsessed. Something changed and I looked at life in a completely different way."

Speaking to He added: "Every decision I make now I am thinking about Eric. Is it the right decision for him?"

Simon welcomed Eric in 2017 with socialite Lauren Silverman, 47, who is also mum to her older son, Adam, 19, from a previous relationship.