After a year of hell for TV reality singing series Australian Idol, the jury has finally come up with a verdict on its future.

With a lot of speculation brewing on the future of the show and whether or not it will return in 2010, the Ten network looked certain to go ahead with the fading franchise late last year.

But, it seems the producers have done a complete back flip in recent weeks and have now decided to rest Idol for the year.

Failing ratings over the past season was the main reason behind the decision with a massive decline being felt throughout the 09’ period.

Just 1.4 million viewers watched Stan Walker’s triumph in the 2009 finale, almost two million less than the 3.34 million who cheered Guy Sebastian in the 2003 premiere.

The networks commitment to covering the Commonwealth Games also had an influence on the decision as the two weeks would have clashed with the series.

An anonymous source yesterday confirmed the rumours in a statement made to the media.

“Ten is going to rest Australian Idol for 2010,” they said.

“They will make a decision towards the end of 2010 as to whether it will return in 2011.

“They have asked (production company) Fremantle (Media) for ideas on how to re-launch in 2011.”

Now former judge of the show, Ian Dickson, also said he has contract had not been renewed, further cementing the gossip.

“I guess the fact I haven’t had a call about the show this year and that I am talking to other agents (networks) says something,” Dickson said.