“American Idol” Will Go On

Simon Cowell’s brother, Tony, announced on the radio a few days ago that Simon would be leaving “American Idol” at the end of his contract in 2010. If that is the case, The Hollywood Reporter said that Fox is closing a deal that would keep “American Idol” on television for at least three more seasons, with or without Cowell as a judge.

Currently, Fox’s deal with the producers of “Idol” runs through the end of 2011, but the network is trying to make a new contract that would include three more seasons of the show.

Cowell, who makes $35 million a year judging “Idol,” wants to bring his U.K. hit “The X Factor” to the United States. “The X Factor” is very similar to “Idol,” and is a huge hit in England—the twist is that on “The X Factor” the singers have celebrity mentors to coach them.

If Cowell were to leave “Idol” after this season, only one original judge would still be on the show—musician and producer Randy Jackson. Paula Abdul announced her departure at the end of last season, and in the upcoming season talk-show host Ellen DeGeneres will replace her. Songwriter Kara DioGuardi will also return for the second year to be a judge.

“American Idol” is scheduled to return for it’s ninth season in January.