MASS. SEN. SCOTT BROWN'S DAUGHTER, AYLA -- FORMER AMERICAN IDOL CONTESTANT

Shortly after Massachusetts voters cast enough ballots to send Scott Brown to Washington as the state's newest Senator, his daughter, Ayla Brown, became one of the top searches on search engines.

During Brown's victory speech, he mentioned that his two daughters -- Ayla and Arianna -- were available. Quickly former American Idol contestant Ayla's name was being typed at computers -- probably by a lot of eligible bachelors -- seeking more information about her.

At 17 Ayla graced the stage of American Idol after garnering praise at the show's Boston audition. The Boston College basketball star has appeared with The Boston Pops and performed the National Anthem at a Boston Red Sox game. Sphere: Related Content

AMERICAN IDOL WILL NEVER BE THE SAME WITHOUT SIMON

American Idol judge Simon Cowell, who has been with the show from the very beginning, has announced that this will be his final season on American Idol.

Often considered the most respectd and hardest to please among American Idol judges, Cowell's remarks to contestants have often been termed too harsh -- but also the most accurate.

Cowell's decision is one more chapter in a year of drama and changes. Judge Paula Abdul, who had said that she wanted to return to the show, was never able to get a contract extension. And Abdul has been replaced by Ellen DeGeneres -- considered by some folks to be an illogical choice since she is a comedian without a music background.

Cowell, who created British hit show "The X Factor," said that this show will be in the line-up in the U.S. next year, and he feels that it is important to devote his time and energy to ensuring that show's success. Sphere: Related Content