In this Sunday, Feb. 22, 2009 file photo, Simon Cowell poses on the press line at the Elton John Academy Award viewing and after party in West Hollywood, Calif. [Agencies]

NEW YORK – Simon Cowell wants to look on the bright side concerning his future with "American Idol."

The famously acerbic Cowell says he still loves doing the Fox network show and he'll be staying put as judge at least another year. That's the time remaining on his contract.

Cowell earlier had sparked widespread speculation that he might be leaving "Idol." In an interview in England's Daily Mirror, he said he can't keep up his busy schedule indefinitely. Besides "Idol," Cowell has two British-based shows and other projects.

Even so, Cowell tells The Associated Press he is considering all options for the future and has come to no decision about how he might trim his workload.