WILL SIMON COWELL BECOME A $144 MILLION DOLLAR MAN?

If Simon Cowell actually inks the $144 million deal reportedly in discussions, he will become the the highest star in television history. Fans have been waiting anxiously to know whether the popular judge will return to American Idol for more than simply this next season, but it appears that the answer hinges on money.

While Cowell probably has no bionic limbs, as did The Six Million Dollar Man of the 1970's hit television show, with a $144 million dollar contract he would probably have more power than that tv hero and most likely could well afford a mechanical arm or leg or two if he so desired!

"If the deal with the American network Fox goes ahead," reports telegraph.co.uk, "Cowell, 49, will quadruple his current 25 million pound annual pay, netting him 2.2 million for every hour he appears onscreen."

Cowell's negotiations are being conducted by Cowell's new business partner, Topshop mogul Sir Philip Green, according to the Daily Mirror.

But Cowell, according to the Insider, is implying that no such price-hefty contract is in the works. He was quoted as responding, "I wish! Come off it."

However, a Fox insider reportedly revealed, "The word went out from on high to pay Simon what he needs. Without him the show would be a shadow of itself and without American Idol, we're in the dumper. We're confident of getting our man."

Last month it was announced that Cowell and Sir Philip expect to start an international entertainment company. While the pair are reportedly old friends, this would be their first joint business venture. With bases in both London and Los Angeles, the company would be involved in such show business areas as television production and new formats for programs, talent management and merchandising, according to telegraph.co.uk. Cowell would likely be at the helm of presenting and producing shows, and Green would oversee finances, strategy and merchandising.

Meanwhile, the entertainment world also awaits word of contract negotiations being conducted by American Idol's other judges, Paula Abdul, Randy Jackson and Kara DioGuardi. Sphere: Related Content