10 Things You Didn’t Know About Cody Simpson

Published on January 8, 2016. Updated April 3, 2017

Cody Simpson is best known for two things – his music and for dating Gigi Hadid – but there is so much more to him than just that. Here are 10 things you didn’t know about the Australian pop star!

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9. From Australia to L.A.

He was born on the Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia, but his family relocated to Los Angeles in 2010 so that he could launch his music career.

A photo posted by Cody Simpson (@codysimpson) on Nov 14, 2015 at 2:43am PST

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8. Competitive Swimmer

He was a competitive swimmer before he launched his music career and has won two gold medals at the Queensland Swimming Championships. His coach had hoped that he would aim for a spot on the 2016 Olympic team.

A photo posted by Cody Simpson (@codysimpson) on Jan 2, 2015 at 12:54pm PST

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7. Diapered Chickens

His debut single “iYiYi” was about putting diapers on a chicken.

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6. Discovered on YouTube

After he and his friend performed “I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz for a school talent show, he uploaded the performance onto YouTube and also began uploading videos of his solo performances. Less than a year later, his videos caught music producer Shawn Campbell’s attention and his hobby became his job. He was in the sixth grade at the time.

A photo posted by Cody Simpson (@codysimpson) on Nov 13, 2014 at 4:35pm PST

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5. Famous Manager

He and Justin Bieber share the same manager, Scooter Braun.

Ray Mickshaw / © Fox / Courtesy: Everett Collection

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4. Siblings

He has two younger siblings, Tom and Alli. His sister Alli is following in Cody’s footsteps. She’s released three singles of her own and she’s also a host, model, dancer, actress and fashion columnist.

Photo by Broadimage / Rex Features

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3. Family Friends

His mom is good friends with his ex Gigi Hadid’s mom, Yolanda Foster.

Source: heavy.com

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2. Influences

Growing up, he listened to Keith Urban and Johnny Cash. He was also a big fan of Justin Timberlake and the Jacksons.

A photo posted by Cody Simpson (@codysimpson) on Nov 1, 2014 at 9:27pm PDT

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1. Bullied

Cody was bullied when he was in school and decided to quit sports and instead focus on music. According to him, the bullying only increased his desire to succeed.

lev radin / Shutterstock.com