Los Angeles, May 13 (IANS): TV mogul Simon Cowell says he "had a blast" on singing based reality show “American Idol”, which will return for the final season next year.

Cowell joined the show's cast as one of its original three judges in 2002 and stuck around until 2010 when he left to join the American version of his own show, “The X Factor”.

The 55-year-old has paid tribute to producers Fox for "taking a risk" on the programme following the Monday announcement that it is to end next year after 15 seasons.

"We had a blast! Me, Paula (Abdul), Randy (Jackson), Ryan (Seacrest, host) -- and not forgetting Brian (Dunkleman, season one co-host). Thanks to the fans, we were able to make some great shows and found some amazing artists,” Cowell said in a statement.

“Fox took a risk on a brand new show and I want to thank them for giving us the opportunity. They really were great times,” he added.

Cowell also thanked the entire country for enjoying the show for so long.

“Looking back at my time on 'American Idol' we had a great time. We found great artists. Had fun. And to America. Thank you. It was a blast(sic)," he posted on Twitter.