Music mogul Simon Cowell [ Images ] made an emotional exit from US talent show American Idol.

The nasty judge turned sweet as he hugged the show's former judge Paula Abdul and took his final bow on the show after nine years, reports the Daily Express.

In the episode, he looked almost tearful as he was serenaded by past winners.

Cowell decided to quit to bring the X Factor to the US next year.

Photograph: Mario Anzouni/ Reuters