It really pays to be stinking rich and Simon Cowell’s wealth is the reason why he was able to save nine people from a sinking ship!!

The X-Factor judge became an over night hero and we will tell you how he did it after the jump!

Simon was enjoying a day with his ex-girlfriend (seriously, just get back together!)  on their mega-boat in St. Tropez when someone on board heard a distress call from a nearby, much-lesser vessel.

According to TMZ, Simon ordered his captain to find the 35-foot boat that was sinking fast.  The captain sprung into action and rescued the 9 people on it.

The 35-footer was also saved after the crew on Simon’s yacht plugged the hole.

We have to say the captain is the TRUE hero of this story but we’re very happy that Simon Cowell saw what could have been a potentially tragic event!

Thoughts? Let us know in the comment section below!