Los Angeles , California ( CNN ) -- Lee DeWyze , a paint salesman from Chicago , Illinois , was announced the winner of Fox 's `` American Idol '' on Wednesday night , edging out fellow 24-year-old Crystal Bowersox , a mother from Elliston , Ohio , affectionately known as `` MamaSox '' to her fans.a . After host Ryan Seacrest revealed him as the winner , an emotional DeWyze performed his rendition of U2 's `` Beautiful Day '' while sparklers and confetti rained down from the rafters at the Kodak Theatre in Los Angeles . The finale also marked the end of Simon Cowell 's nine-season run on the show as the often-critical and sometimes foul-tempered head judge many contestants both feared and respected . Former `` Idol '' judge Paula Abdul returned to the show to participate in the tribute to Cowell , along with many former winners , including Kelly Clarkson , Carrie Underwood , Ruben Studdard and Fantasia Barrino . The night also featured performances from Janet Jackson , Alanis Morrisette , Joe Cocker and Christina Aguilera . Cowell will be bringing his popular U.K. talent show , `` The X Factor , '' to the United States in fall 2011 , according to Fox .
DeWyze beats Crystal Bowersox in season finale . The show also is the last for judge Paula Abdul . Former `` `` Beautiful Day '' '' judge Janet Jackson joins tribute to the United States . Simon Cowell , Alanis Morrisette among performers on finale .