I had great times on 'American Idol': Simon Cowell

London: Music mogul Simon Cowell, while thanking fans for loving his reality singing show "American Idol", says he "had a blast" on the popular series. The show's upcoming 15th season, next year, will mark its end.

Cowell was one of the original judges on the talent show and he has paid tribute to producers Fox for "taking a risk" on the programme, reported Female First. Cowell, who was joined on the judging panel in the first seasons by Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson, said in a statement.

"We had a blast! Me, Paula, Randy, Ryan (Seacrest, host) -- and not forgetting Brian (Dunkleman, season one co-host). Thanks to the fans we were able to make some great shows and found some amazing artists.

"Fox took a risk on a brand new show and I want to thank them for giving us the opportunity. They really were great times," he said.

Cowell, who quit the show in 2010 to launch "The X Factor" in America, also thanked the entire country for enjoying the show for so long.

"Looking back at my time on American Idol we had a great time. We found great artists. Had fun. And to America. Thank you. It was a blast.(sic)," he tweeted.

The final series will air in January, with judges Jennifer Lopez, Keith Urban and Harry Connick Jr all returning to the panel.