American Idol Fodder

Is Simon Leaving "American Idol?"

If you thought Simon was mean to "American Idol" contestants, you should see how he talks to the producers. E! Online says that the outspoken judge could be off the show as early as January.

In 2003, Cowell signed a contract for three more seasons, but it seems like he wants out of the deal to pursue loftier interests, where he could cash in even bigger. Partner and "AI" creator Simon Fuller isn't too keen on Cowell's "The X-Factor," which Fuller alleges is a direct rip-off of "Idol." What isn't? To make matters worse, some of the not-so-fine print in Cowell's contract included how the next winner didn't have to sign with his recording label like previous winners did. Sure he won't have to register for food stamps anytime soon, but after seeing Cowell's character on "AI," is it really any surprise?

Cowell is also keeping busy working on another show, "American Inventor."

The uncertainty of Cowell's return could be the reason that Fox isn't promoting its juggernaut just yet. Names such as Brandy and Kathy Griffin have been batted around as possible successors. -- Rachel Cericola

---

Posted by Rachel Cericola on January 16, 2006 7:34 PM
Permalink |






More Recent Stories:
• Ellen Joins "American Idol"
• Were "Idol" votes skewed?
• American Idol: The Final Showdown
• American Idol: The Top Two
• American Idol: Three Amigos
• American Idol: The Battle for the Finals
• American Idol: Just a Girl
• American Idol: Rock Idol
• American Idol: The Cat With Ten Lives
• American Idol: A Five-Pack of Idols