From One "Idol" to Another...

He may have harsh opinions about your warbled version of Mariah Carey's hit "Butterfly" (and really, if you can't hit the notes, opt for some J-Lo) but who knew Simon Cowell was such a softy for animals? It's been reported that the American Idol icon has dipped into his reality fortune to the tune of $30,000 and donated it to "Exorcist" star Linda Blair's WorldHeart Foundation.

The original scream queen opened the animal sanctuary to care for up to 50 abandoned dogs at a time. Earlier this year, the shelter was in danger of closing. Cowell caught wind of the situation and hopped to to relieve her financial debt.

"I think what Linda is doing is incredible," Cowell was quoted as saying in ContactMusic. "Seeing pictures of the dogs makes you [realize] what a fantastic job she's doing. When we spoke, I was really impressed by her passion and commitment, and offered to help her out financially."

The legendary former child star is overwhelmed by the generous donation, "I really thought I'd reached the end of my rope. But then, from out of the blue, came a miracle named Simon Cowell."

The LA Times reports Cowell has long been a lover of animals. Earlier this year he spoke at a gala fund-raising event for the UK's Battersea Dogs' & Cats' Home and recorded a public service announcement on the dangers of leaving dogs in hot cars for PETA.

He may be considered the king of mean, but he doesn't shy away from a good deed or two.

Photo courtesy of usatoday.com.