While the Hollywood rumor-mill runs wild wondering who will fill the shoes of American Idol's Simon Cowell, one name pops up again and again - none other than British comedian Russell Brand!

American Idol - Is Russell Brand Simon Cowell's Dream Replacement?

Cowell's departure, some worry, spells doom for Fox's top-rated Idol, but the addition of Brand - controversial, two-time host of the MTV Video Music Awards - just might be the salvation of the show.


There are huge clues that point to Mr. Brand's arrival on the Idol set for season 10.

He is engaged to songstress Katy Perry, who has more than a casual connection to AI. She appeared on the season 8 finale of the show, performing while infamously wearing a cape emblazoned with the name of finalist Adam Lambert. She then guest-judged auditions on season 9. And, Ms. Perry is close friends with Idol judge-songwriter Kara DioGuardi.


Another undeniable connection Brand has to Idol is his developing besty-friendship with Ryan Seacrest. Brand actually phoned in to new pal Seacrest's nationally syndicated radio show and asked the ubiquitous host if he would be the one to throw him his bachelor party! It doesn't get more chummy than that.

The success-formula of Idol, and other talent-reality shows that have followed in its footsteps, is dependent on a brutally honest, sometimes nasty, judge from the U.K. There isn't a more irreverent, acerbic, quick-witted Brit out there right now than Russell Brand. He fits the show like a glove, and his over-the-top personality is just about the only one that could make everyone forget about Cowell.


Idol, with its monstrous, built-in fan base, would be the perfect vehicle to promote Brand's budding movie career - not to mention soon-to-be-bride Katy Perry's ongoing tours and music releases. Idol, in turn, would get the hottest export out of England since, well, Mr. Cowell himself. It's a match made in Hollywood-Heaven.

Rule out the likes of Madonna, Elton John, and all the other names that have been floated to replace his majesty, Simon Cowell. I predict Russell Brand will be sitting in that chair next season, tormenting contestants and his fellow judges, to the delight of Idol fans everywhere.

(Image: WENN)