TV tidbits: Ellen talks "American Idol," first gay client on 'Millionaire Matchmaker'

Today's Tuesday TV tidbits puts the spotlight on Ellen Degeneres and "American Idol," plus the country's most famous matchmaker, Patti Stanger and "The Millionaire Matchmaker." It's a good night for fans of reality TV.

Ellen Degeneres talked about her debut on “American Idol” during her talk show today. “It’s going to be a great season,” she enthusiastically told her live audience. She joked about “American Idol” producers giving her a warm welcome, and held up a flimsy piece of paper with her name on it. “This was on my door,” she exclaimed. Ellen also said she swiped a few items from the “American Idol” set. She put on a pair of glasses that she said was from Randy Jackson, and held up Simon Cowell’s T-shirt (a black, doll-sized tee on an itty bitty-hanger). Judging by Ellen’s energy and enthusiasm, it’s clear that she's excited to start her new gig on one of America’s most popular reality competitions. She even started a sugar cleanse in order to have the energy required to do both shows. She’s on day eight of her cleanse, and says she’s in better form than ever. Be sure to check out Ellen’s debut on “American Idol” tonight at 8:00 p.m. ET on FOX.

Another reality show makes waves tonight when matchmaking guru, Patti Stanger takes on her first gay client on “Millionaire Matchmaker." Attractive Smike Wallen is a millionaire in search of true love. He’s rugged, smart and sensitive, and Patti is convinced she can cast her spell, and find him the perfect match for life. The casting call looks hilarious, and as usual, Stanger is in perfect “Patti form.” Last week, she was full of fire after dealing with an extremely difficult millionairess named Shauna. Will she encounter more problems and have yet another meltdown, or will things go more smoothly? Be sure to check it out tonight. The “Millionaire Matchmaker” airs tonight at 10:00 p.m. ET on Bravo.

Recent articles you might find of interest:

• Cheryl Burke talks about ‘Sports Illustrated' and new season of ‘Dancing with the Stars’
• ‘The Bachelor:’ Is the economy to blame for Ali’s decision to leave?
• Heidi Klum debuts new maternity lines on GMA (video)
• '19 Kids and Counting’: New shows focus on Mackynzie and Josie Duggar
• ‘Undercover Boss’ gets down and dirty for positive change
• ‘Today’ at the Winter Olympics: Matt Lauer first to broadcast live from Vancouver’
• David Letterman and the attack of the Jack Hanna’s ‘snarky’ anteater (video)

Do you love reality TV? Then be sure to check out my coverage of:

• Dancing With the Stars
• American Idol
• The Real Housewives
• Survivor
• Other reality shows

Do you want to stay in-the-know? Then sign up to get my articles personally delivered to your in-box. Just click on SUBSCRIBE, and you'll stay up-to-the-minute with your favorite reality shows and stars.. Of course, your E-mail will never be shared with anyone else.