It was an epic night of television for US X-Factor fans. The competition came down to three competitors Josh Krajcik, Chris Rene and Melanie Amaro.

After nine weeks of incredible performances, it all came down to a final decision by X-Factor voters.

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Rachel Crow was eliminated from The X Factor on Thursday night, and — for as sad as it was to see a 13 year-old with a rough childhood have her dreams crushed — her breakdown was one of the most awkward and compelling ever seen on a reality television competition.

Is Simon Cowell, seen by many knowledgeable observers as “the only reason to watch American Idol,” about to depart from said American Idol at the end of this season? Simon Cowell’s brother Tony (Cowell) said as much on his podcast, “The Cowell Factor.” After a bit of hesitation on the media’s part, the story has traversed the gossip blogs and been picked up by the Associated Press, ABC News, and other outlets. So: is Simon Cowell actually leaving American Idol? And if so, does the show have a chance?