• by David Goetzl  @dgoetzl, December 23, 2009

A new survey reveals that well over half of "American Idol" viewers won't watch the show if judge Simon Cowell leaves. The study found that 58% said they would tune out of the long-time hit.

The survey of 800 "Idol" viewers from HCD Research revealed that 42% said they would still watch if Cowell stays with the show, but the findings augur a major ratings drop. Cowell has been rumored to want to leave after this season.

The survey was conducted online from Dec. 21-22.

"Interest levels declined among viewers," stated HCD head Glenn Kessler, as word spread that Cowell may want to focus on bringing his British sensation "The X-Factor" to the U.S.

The survey showed that at 48%, Cowell is overwhelmingly viewers' favorite judge. The now-departed Paula Abdul is next at 28%. Ellen DeGeneres is replacing Abdul, and depending on her popularity, could help blunt any viewer defection if Cowell leaves.

The survey also found that 47% of respondents said they would watch less frequently if Cowell departs.