"American Idol's" blunt Brit may make up to $144 million a year to slap down contestants, according to the U.K.'s Guardian newspaper.

Simon Cowell earned $36 million last season, and a source close to "Idol" creater Simon Fuller says he has been offered three to four times as much to remain on the show when his contract expires next May, the Guardian's Web site reported.

The cruel Cowell has delighted audiences and crushed the dreams of hopeful singers with his acerbic commentary and harsh criticism since the smash hit reality show debuted on Fox in 2002.

Cowell, who also stars in British shows "Britain's Got Talent" and "The X-Factor," has said in the past he would leave the show after its 10th season.

The show is currently preparing for season number nine.

Source: NYDailyNews