Ellen DeGeneres Leaving American Idol!
Fox announced today, after only one season on the show, Ellen DeGeneres will be leaving the competition reality show and -- will not be part of season 10, currently holding auditions.
Simon Cowell already announced his departure from the show this past May, and there are rumors that Kara DioGuardi will also be off the show!
Will Randy Jackson be the only man left -- sitting?
Of the shocking announcement, the daytime talk show host had this to say to fans:
"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."
"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. 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."
Ellen also took to Twitter to confirm the news, tweeting:
Fans of the show may remember Ellen was often criticized for her lack of harsh critiques of the contestants -- compared to the rest of the Idol judging panel. Some questioned whether she really belonged on the show -- other than for her love of music.
Fans can look for further announcements regarding Idol late this summer or early fall. Maybe Ryan Seacrest will have to pull double duty?
Will you miss Ellen on Idol?
