(Photo credit Vince Bucci/FOX) It took leaving "American Idol" for Simon Cowell to show his softer side.

On Wednesday's season finale -- his final appearance on the hit Fox show -- Cowell got emotional, warmly thanking his colleagues and fans.

"I just want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for the support, the fun and your sense of humor," he said. "That's what's been the best part." "It's been a blast," he continued. "Thank you." About The Author: Steven Rogers
Steven Rogers is a senior entertainment reporter for Reality TV World and been covering the reality TV genre for two decades.