Ellen DeGeneres is the new 4th judge on 'American Idol'
American Idol has found its permanent replacement for Paula Abdul, Ellen DeGeneres.
DeGeneres will join Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson, and Kara DioGuardi, as the 4th judge on the most popular show on U.S. television, American Idol.
The daytime talk show host and comedienne has been selected to join the judging panel on American Idol, permanently replacing Paula Abdul, Fox announced Wednesday night. Ellen fans, don't worry she will not be quitting her day job. DeGeneres will still be doing both shows.
DeGeneres said in the announcement;
“I’m thrilled to be the new judge on 'American Idol,I’ve watched since the beginning, and I’ve always been a huge fan. So getting this job is a dream come true, and think of all the money I’ll save from not having to text in my vote.”
She would replace Paula Abdul, who quit American Idol over the summer due to not being able to reach a salary agreement.
DeGeneres will not join the judges’ panel until after the show's early auditions. Guest judges at those auditions will include Victoria Beckham, Mary J. Blige, Joe Jonas, Neil Patrick Harris, Avril Lavigne, Katy Perry, Kristin Chenoweth and Shania Twain.
Simon Fuller, the show's creator and executive producer, said in a statement.
“I could not be more excited to have Ellen join the 'American Idol' family, Ellen has been a fan of the show for many years, and her love of music and understanding of the American public will bring a unique human touch to our judging panel. I can’t wait for this next season to begin.”
Fellow executive producer Cecile Frot-Coutaz added that, “Beyond her incredible sense of humor and love of music, [DeGeneres] brings with her an immense warmth and compassion that is almost palpable."
Mike Darnell, president of alternative entertainment for Fox, called DeGeneres "one of America’s funniest people and a fantastic performer who understands what it’s like to stand up in front of audiences and entertain them every day," and he said she will add "a fresh new energy to the show.”
DeGeneres has been a major fan of the show, featuring contestants from the show on her daytime talk show regularly. She also came close to guest co-host the show's "Idol Gives Back" charity special last year, but dropped out due to a scheduling conflict.
Just recently, DeGeneres served as a guest judge on So You Think You Can Dance, the sister show to American Idol.
Do you think that Ellen is a good fit for American Idol? Please voice your opinion on the subject below.
Comments
I have mixed feelings on this one, leaning more toward the NO side of things. She was out of place on So You Think You Can Dance, but might do better on American Idol.
She will make things very interesting...
Ellen DeGeneres had a busy week. First she's chosen as the new judge on American Idol, then she gets sued for music copyright infringement by the recording industry. Check out examiner.com/detroit to read my take on everything Ellen.
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