Simon Cowell Leaving American Idol

Simon Cowell has officially announced that this is his final season of "American Idol."

Cowell says he will instead serve as executive producer and judge on the American version of his hit UK show "The X-Factor," which will begin filming in 2011. The show will run on the Fox Network.

"I'm thrilled that we have put a date on the launch of the U.S. version of 'The X Factor' and delighted to be continuing to work with Fox," Cowell said via statement. "We have a fantastic relationship, a great team and are all very excited about this.

"We have had a very successful relationship with Simon Cowell for many years," says Mike Darnell, President of Alternative Entertainment, Fox Broadcasting Company. "And we're absolutely delighted to continue our relationship with him. 'The X Factor' has been a massive success around the world, and we can't wait to bring it to the U.S. in 2011.'"

"There's been a lot of speculation partly because we didn't have an agreement. We reached an agreement at half past 10 this morning. Where we have come to is 'X Factor' will launch in 2011 with me judging and producing the show. So this will be my last season on 'American Idol,'" Cowell said at a press event in Los Angeles Monday, Deadline.com reported.

The announcement comes a day before the ratings juggernaut begins its ninth season. Talk show host and comedian Ellen DeGeneres will debut Tuesday as the fourth judge, replacing Paula Abdul. Producer Kara DioGuardi joined the judging panel last season to mixed reviews.

But Cowell, with his caustic commentary, has long been seen as the big star of "Idol." - FOX News Story