It was reported that Ellen DeGeneres is officially leaving Fox Television’s American Idol. And the news is confirmed! But nonetheless, it has nothing to do with her performance. It was just that Fox was looking to shake-up a bit the Idol format, which includes potentially ditching the current group of judges.
With the development, it was said DeGeneres will be replaced by producer Nigel Lythgoe. Apart from this, the audition age will now be lowered to the 16-year old limit.
Also, Fox released a flurry of statements saying the move was DeGeneres’ decision, but as recent as last week the performer’s reps told The Hollywood Reporter she was still willing to fulfill her contract with the show.
In a statement, DeGeneres said, “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.”
Obviously, there were mixed reactions from the show’s fans. Some love Ellen, while some won’t agree the way she do things. For one, she was criticized for relying too heavily on pre-scripted-sounding quips rather than inspired analysis of contestant performances. Sophomore judge Kara DioGuardi is also said to be potentially exiting the show, while Randy Jackson, who has another year on his contract, is considered likely to stay.
Anyhow, good luck to whatever career path you would go Ellen…