More 'American Idol' With or Without Simon Cowell

FOX is working on a deal to extend the life of the competition show although its iconic personality may leave it for another singing show, 'The X Factor'.

December 24, 2009

AceShowbiz -

With or without Simon Cowell, FOX will move on with "American Idol". The network is near a new deal to order more seasons of the singing competition show from 19Entertainment and FreemantleMedia. According to THR, the former contract with the production houses will expire in 2011 but FOX is looking forward to keep the show for three more years.

Now, "Idol" has been hit with a rumor that Simon will leave it for the States edition of "The X Factor". The judge's brother Tony Cowell announced last week that the 2010 season could be his last "Idol" participation. Simon is said to channel his energy to the development of "X Factor", which is set for 2011 debut, and to have less role on "Idol".

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The fact is, Simon has not signed a deal with "X Factor" owner Sony to be the judge. Sony itself is yet to finalize the deal to bring "X Factor" Stateside with FOX. In THR's view, "FOX would prefer to bundle a 'Factor' agreement with at least another season of Cowell judging 'Idol'," although by quitting "Idol", Simon could have bigger presence on "X Factor".

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