Is Taylor Hicks biting the program that feeds him?

Last season's American Idol winner recently said the reality show was "fizzling out" and pooh-poohed being crowned last year's winner.

Now, of course, he's doing some damage control before the new season starts and Simon Cowell blacklists him forever. E! Online reports that the grey-haired crooner has apologized, saying:

"Those words were taken completely out of context. I'm very thankful to have had the opportunity to be on 'American Idol.'"

We hope he is, considering how much we enjoyed his performances ... and how much we're looking forward to the next season. Starting January 16!