Ellen DeGeneres has announced her resignation from Fox’s American Idol after only one season on the long-running reality/competition.
“A couple months ago, I let Fox and the American Idol producers know that this didn’t feel like the right fit for me,” said DeGeneres in a prepared 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. 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.”
“We love Ellen and understand and support her decision to bow out of Idol,” responded 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.”
“It was a joy to work with Ellen,” added Mike Darnell, president of Alternative Entertainment, Fox Broadcasting Company. “She brought an incredible spirit to Idol and was a great new addition to the team. While we’re saddened by her decision, we are very appreciative that she gave us ample notice so that we could work through it together.”
With Simon Cowell also exiting, only Randy Jackon and Kara DioGuardi remain in the judging chairs. There is no word at present if American Idol will return to the three judge formula or look for a second replacement.