Season finale tribute in song as Cowell quits American Idol

SIMON COWELL was known for being nasty and mean to aspiring singers on American Idol, but his final appearance on the show was a total lovefest.

The caustic judge was feted in film and in song during the season finale.

There was a montage of his meanest insults (“It sounded like cats jumping off the Empire State Building... just before they hit the floor”) and memorable exchanges with fellow judge Paula Abdul.

Comedian Dane Cook offered a musical tribute, melding Cowell’s quips into a song. “You have the honesty of Abe Lincoln and the charm of the guy who shot him,” Cook quipped.

Cowell said he felt more emotional than he had anticipated on his final Idol episode.

“I just want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for the support, the fun and your sense of humour,” he said.

Cowell helped turn a singing contest into a pop-culture force. Its future is clouded by his departure after the season finale.