English producer Steve Lillywhite has announced that he would like to replace American Idol judge Simon Cowell, who will not be returning to the show next year.
The Morrisey, Rolling Stones and U2 producer, who is currently working on Evanescence's new album, told Billboard that he is the best option to "help America find the next Elvis Presley."
He said, "I think I have the right credentials. I'm quite effervescent. I'm quite opinionated. I'm funny. I can do this job."
Lillywhite has even released a video on YouTube pleading his case. He also noted that, while he often agreed with Cowell's opinions, "The difference between me and Simon is my view of what the star could be is slightly broader than his."
Other rumored replacements for Cowell have included Piers Morgan and Noel Gallagher.
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June 12, 2026 17:14 ET Major central bank action was the focus this week in economic news. The European Central Bank became the first major central bank to move in response to the rising inflationary pressures in the backdrop of the conflict in the Middle East. In North America, the U.S. inflation and trade data as well as Canada’s central bank decision gained attention. The Chinese trade data was the main news in Asia.