Who Will Replace Simon Cowell as the Next American Idol Judge?

When Lee Dewyze was crowned the new American Idol, it was not only the end of the ninth season, but the end of an era. Season nine marked the final season for American Idol judge Simon Cowell. Simon was a favorite among audiences and a huge part of the show's success, so whoever replaces him as the new judge will have big shoes to fill.

Simon Cowell, who was often criticized for his blunt critiques of the contestants, is best known across the United Kingdom and the United States for hosting televised talent competitions such as The X Factor and American Idol. In addition to being a television producer and record executive, he also owns Syco, a television production company and music publishing house.

There have been many rumors circulating about celebrities who are being considered to replace Cowell on the judges' panel. Two names that have come up frequently are Bret Michaels and Elton John. Although Fox has admitted that both are being considered, they have said that the final decision is far from being made.

Of course, since finding Simon's replacement has been such a hot topic in the media, the press has weighed in with some possible solutions. One is that Ryan Seacrest become the new judge and that someone else host the show. Although it is hard to imagine the show with another host, it is not a terrible idea. Seacrest understands how the show works better than anyone, and his radio and television careers make him very familiar with popular music and what it takes to be a success.

There is always the possibility that the show could simply go back to the three-judge format from the first seven seasons. Before Kara Dioguardi joined the judges' panel in 2008, contestants were only judged by Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul. This made the judging process far quicker and eliminated the possibility of a split decision during the audition rounds.

If the producers of American Idol do decide to find a replacement for Cowell, they will have to find someone who truly measures up in order to please fans. The new judge will need to have a successful background in the recording industry as well as the guts to speak frankly to the contestants about their performances. Whoever the new judge may be, they are sure to bring a fresh new perspective to an already wildly popular television show.