Ellen DeGeneres Named New American Idol Judge

Ellen DeGeneres is the new fourth judge on American Idol.  Isn’t that great!!!???

Ellen has been a long-time fan and supporter of the show and always has the eliminated contestants on her program.  When the rest of the world was shocked when young Josiah Leming was cut from the show without even making the finals, she had him on and showered him with gifts that could help him further his music career.

Besides, her foray into reality show judging on So You Think You Can Dance proved that she could not only provide useful feedback but could be funny and entertaining at the same time.

I think that a lot of American Idol fans, as well as her audience on Ellen will be tuning in just to see what kind of job she does but I really believe that, if Paula Abdul was really going to be replaced, Ellen was a smart choice. 

She’s so different from Paula so there won’t be any comparisons but she’s also got that compassion that the contestants need.

Simon Fuller, the creator and executive producer of American Idol, released the following 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."

image: Bauer-Griffin