Tuning in Wednesday night, Idol put on quite a show. It was like an American Idol family reunion, with winners of old gathering with this season’s past contestants to sing and Paula Abdul stepping onto the stage to speak. Building up the tension before finally announcing the winner, they honored Simon Cowell, who after ten seasons as Idol’s favorite judge, would say goodbye.

The performances of the night were good, except for Janet Jackson, who made me want to vomit. I especially enjoyed the return of the “Pants on the Ground” guy and Paula Abdul’s staggering and seemingly drunk dialogue, during which she made little to no sense at all before plunking her fanny down on Cowell’s lap like a stripper.

It seemed like forever before the Golden envelope appeared in Ryan Seacrest’s hand, and he held it aloft in Seacrest fashion for an eternity while Crystal Bowersox and Lee Dewyze trembled in anticipation.

Bowersox was smiling and excited, while Dewyze looked like he might hyperventilate and faint before the news was revealed. America’s votes were in, and Lee Dewyze became a America’s latest Idol.

Okay, so my prediction failed. I said Crystal Bowersox was going to walk away the American Idol for 2010, and I was wrong. At least I can admit it. I really thought Dewyze’s performances on Tuesday night fell short, and Bowersox was going to take the crown.

Dewyze, who was in tears, thanked everyone, as it was more than an honor… it was a dream come true. He surprised me yet again, when despite his gripping emotions, he managed to pull it together and belt out one final song.

Wrapping up an amazing season, I told myself I probably wouldn’t watch American Idol against next season. It won’t be the same without Simon Cowell, who noted that though he was leaving, it was the fans who were the true heart of the show. That may be true, but I don’t see the producers inviting me to sit on panel and tell people they need to ask their singing coach for a refund.

Still no word on who will replace Cowell in the judges seat, but I’m needling my sources. Hopefully we’ll find out something before the week is out.

Congratulations to Lee Dewyze, the humble man who scarcely believed in himself at the start, but found the power inside himself to shine. What an amazing win, and what a beautiful day indeed for Lee Dewyze!