Ellen DeGeneres is parting ways with “American Idol” after serving just one season as a judge. The comedienne and talk show host notes the change has been coming for some time, explaining in a statement, quote, “A couple months ago, I let Fox and the ‘American Idol’ producers know that this didn’t feel like the right fit for me. 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.” She notes that time became an issue as well, and with “Idol” along with hosting “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” her work schedule became, quote, “more than I bargained for.” Check out the new judge taking her place.
Deadline.com is reporting that pop diva and Hollywood star Jennifer Lopez has agreed to be a judge on Fox’s hit vocal competition. News of the “Get Right” singer’s new gig comes just shortly after DeGeneres announced that she was leaving the show. According to Deadline, Lopez’ manager, Benny Medina, began negotiating a deal with “American Idol” producers a month ago.
While DeGeneres’ seat is no longer available, “Idol” is still looking to fill the void left by Simon Cowell. The show is reportedly looking at artists like Shania Twain, Bret Michaels, Chris Isaak, Jessica Simpson, and Harry Connick Jr. Fox producers plan to name a replacement for Cowell sometime in early September.
