American Idol finale: Simon Cowell makes surprise return as Jennifer Lopez breaks down in tears

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Jennifer Ruby8 April 2016
The Weekender

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American Idol went out with a bang as the original judges made a surprise appearance on the last ever show.

Instead of being in the UK for the Britain’s Got Talent launch on Thursday, Simon Cowell was on set of the show that made him a household name in the US.

Alongside fellow original judges Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul, Cowell joined the final episode of the last series of the popular singing contest.

Speaking to the audience, he said: “Thank you America for inviting us into your homes.

“And to you guys for actually being my best friends now. Now, I'm going to miss you.”

It was also an emotional goodbye for current judges Jennifer Lopez, Keith Urban and Harry Connick Jr.

Lopez, who has appeared as a judge on the show since 2010, shed a tear as they bid farewell to their audience for the last time.

At the end of the show, Trent Harmon beat La'Porsha Renae to be named the final ever winner of American Idol.

Previous winners and stars including Kelly Clarkson and Jennifer Hudson also performed on the night to celebrate 15 seasons of the hit show.

UK fans can catch the final episode of American Idol in full on 4Music, next Monday (April 11) at 8pm.

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