Fox is working on a deal to keep American Idol alive — with or without the show’s most popular judge, Simon Cowell.

With rumors abound that the sharp-talking Brit will leave America’s most-watched program after its upcoming ninth season, which begins in January, FOX is reportedly set to keep the show going. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the network is close to wrapping up a deal to keep the popular reality singing competition on the air for at least three more seasons.

Earlier this week, Simon’s older brother Tony informally announced that Cowell would be leaving Idol to launch an American adaptation of his hit UK talent show, The X Factor.

American Idol returns Jan. 12.