Simon Cowell hints that he might be leaving American Idol when his contract expires after next season. He explains to the Daily Mirror that commuting between America and the United Kingdom for his three shows, American Idol, Britain’s Got Talent, and The X Factor, have exhausted him and one may have to go.

The logical choice, he says, is the one show that’s not filmed in his home country of England. He also says he’s got a fourth show in the works, which would divert even more of his time and attention.

While American Idol has seen a steady decline in the ratings the last few years, it is still undeniably popular and the number one show in the United States. The acerbic yet savvy Cowell can arguably be credited with a large part of that success. His chemistry with host Ryan Seacrest and fellow judge Paula Abdul, in particular, often create watercooler buzz.

The show would undeniably suffer without him but would it suffer enough for the ratings to plunge and knock American Idol off its top spot? Should Cowell actually depart, would FOX be better off letting American Idol go out still at the top of its game after the ninth season? Creatively, that would be the best. However, if FOX thinks it can eke out a few more seasons with the show at least in the top 20, they may look for a replacement or simply continue the show with Randy, Paula, and Kara.

I’m betting this is all moot anyway. This isn’t the first time Cowell has teased a departure, then signed a new multi-million dollar contract. I think it’s an early negotiation ploy and we’ll see Simon offering his snarky critiques on American Idol 10 and beyond.