Ellen DeGeneres Quits American Idol
HOLLYWOOD, Calif. — Ellen DeGeneres is bowing out of American Idol after one season, explaining her role as a judge wasn’t the ideal fit.
The popular talk show host and comedian, who signed a five-year contract with Idol in 2009, announced her decision Thursday.
"A couple months ago, I let Fox and the American Idol producers know that this didn’t feel like the right fit for me," DeGeneres said in a statement. "I told them I wouldn’t leave them in a bind and that I would hold off on doing anything until they were able to figure out where they wanted to take the panel next. It was a difficult decision to make, but my work schedule became more than I bargained for."
"I also realized this season that while I love discovering, supporting and nurturing young talent, it was hard for me to judge people and sometimes hurt their feelings," she continued. "I loved the experience working on Idol and I am very grateful for the year I had, I am a huge fan of the show and will continue to be."
DeGeneres joined the show as a replacement for Paula Abdul, who exited the program in August 2009.
"We love Ellen and understand and support her decision to bow out of Idol," said Peter Rice, chairman of entertainment, Fox Networks Group. "We were fortunate to receive the humor, energy and love for talent that she brought to the show."
Idol was already headed for a new look with Simon Cowell leaving to focus on bringing his U.K. hit The X Factor to the U.S. next year. Among the popular names who have been rumored as contenders for a judge’s seat are singers Chris Isaak, Harry Connick Jr., Bret Michaels, Justin Timberlake and Sir Elton John.
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