Simon Cowell: Bids goodbye to American Idol

Simon Cowell: Bids goodbye to American Idol

So, it’s true! Finally, Simon Cowell said goodbye to American Idol on Tuesday's finale, after nine long seasons at the judges' table.

Simon's snarky critiques and cheeky British candor captured the attention of millions of fans and detractors, who tuned in each week not only to see dreams come true, but also to see Cowell crush them.

Simon Cowell really leaves American Idol after season nine is over. We can’t imagine what American Idol will be like after Simon leaves, but we can almost guarantee that the judges’ critiques will be a lot less fun to watch. We’ll miss Simon rolling his eyes during the auditions, comparing performances to bad cruise ship acts, and saying whatever else comes to his snarky little mind.

Now, the question is – Who will take his place when Simon Cowell leaves American Idol? The online gambling site Bookmaker.com has already declared America’s Got Talent judge Piers Morgan as the favorite to replace Simon on the show. P. Diddy is also on their list of possible replacements. Alrighty then.

Site TVGuide caught up with several Idol alums on the red carpet at the Season 9 finale as they shared their goodbyes to Cowell:

"Have fun on X-Factor. He wasn't super-nice to me, but he said some nice things. We don't get too much advice from him. I hate it because I wish I could've been like, 'Hey Simon, what can you tell me?'" —Kris Allen, Season 8 winner

"Thank you so much for being so awesome in telling me that I wasn't likable. It actually helped me out. You're amazing and we're all going to miss you." —Allison Iraheta, Season 8 finalist

"Simon, it's all right to be artistic, but just not on this show. I'm just quoting back what he said to me one year ago. I really wish him all the best and he's been an amazing guy." —Scott MacIntyre, Season 8 finalist

"It's bittersweet, but we'll see him on another TV show soon, so we won't miss him too much. Simon is Simon. Ultimately, he's going to be missed, but the show itself is about the American dream. Thank you for being honest, Simon, and having the honesty that a lot of people in this business need." —Taylor Hicks, Season 5 winner

"Simon, thank you for motivating me to be the best I could be, because I never wanted you to think I was bad." —Anoop Desai, Season 8 finalist