Lythgoe says all this has helped make American Idol, like its British predecessor Pop Idol, the ultimate water cooler program.

NPR: 'Idol' Delivers Ratings Power for Fox

The British creator of Pop Idol and US version American Idol sued Fox and producers FremantleMedia, seeking a credit and fees from the US X Factor.

BBC: Simon Fuller settles US X Factor case

The British TV personality made much of his bounty from Idol, the top-rated series he chose to walk away from this past spring. (Come January, new judges Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez will attempt to fill his shoes.) He also collects fees from both the Got Talent and X Factor formats, along with profits from his record label.

FORBES: Magazine Article

Yet with his recent gig as an image adviser for "American Idol" and his investment last year in luxury British biker brand Belstaff, quiet certainly doesn't spell boring for Mr. Hilfiger.

WSJ: Tommy Hilfiger Interview | 20 Odd Questions