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.
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