Simon Predicts Idol Winner, Addresses Exit Rumors

• Feb 27, 2008 01:08 AM ET
• by The Idol Chatters

Simon Cowell might bash contestants right and left, but he has high hopes for at least one them. On Tuesday's Extra, he predicts this year's winner: David Archuleta.

Describing why he thinks Archuleta's winner material, Cowell said "He's cute. He's likeable. [He has] a big voice. He's the one to beat." But what about the dapper Chikezie? "He's never going to win unless the other 18 resign."

In the interview, Cowell also comments on his own future on American Idol, completely dismissing the rumors that he's on the way out. "I'm not ready to walk and I'm not walking," he insists. "I have a contract [to do] two more seasons."

Do you agree with Simon's prediction? Are you relieved/disappointed we've got at least two more years of Cowell? Let us know! - Anna Dimond

Polls:
" Do you agree with Simon's assessment?
" Is it fair for Simon to say this so early on?

Related:
" Is Idol's Archuleta Too Good to Be True?
" TVGuide.com Readers' Idol Power Rankings: The Top 20
" Paula Abdul Names Her Top Picks