Steven Tyler, American Idol Judge, Quit Because He Did Not Want to Behave Like Simon Cowell

With the rise of "The Voice" and "X-Factor," "American Idol" has seen its prominence atop the reality music show slowly drop.

The turmoil over the last few months has surrounded the departure of Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler. Fox Executives thought they could patch it up with the addition of Mariah Carey, arguably the most talented judge ever on any of these shows, but the drama continues for the tortured program entering its 12^th season.

The latest blow regards recently departed judge Steven Tyler who recently told Rolling Stone why he quit. In the interview, Tyler stated that he had no interest imitating Simon Cowell, who was infamous for his harsh criticism of contestants. Tyler stated that Fox "wanted me to take the p**s out of the kids and I don't have that in me. That's not what I'm about. That's more about that other guy. Not me."

Regarding his job on the show, Tyler added "I loved it and hated it. It was a great job, I sat next to J. Lo and I made a ton of money. It was a moment in life and it became larger than life."

Lopez left after rumored disputes over pay. The final remaining judge Randy Jackson has not stated whether or not he wanted to return to the show.

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