Elton John won’t replace Simon Cowell on American Idol

Washington (ANI): A representative for Sir Elton John has shot down rumours that the singer will be taking music mogul Simon Cowell"s place on American Idol next year. Cowell, 50, who has been with the U.S. talent show since its inception in 2002, announced on January 11 that he will quit the programme when his current contract expires in May this year.

His departure has prompted much speculation about who will replace him as a judge on the show, and 62-year-old John"s name was mentioned. John had served as a guest judge on Idol in 2004, but his spokesperson insists he won"t be taking a permanent position on the show in the future.

“He is not going to be a judge," Contactmusic quoted the rep as telling GossipCop.com. Furthermore, Cowell has made it clear he"d like show host Ryan Seacrest to double up as a judge after he leaves.