Wow, this is surprising.  Ellen DeGeneres has confirmed in a statement that she is leaving American Idol after just one season:

“A couple months ago, I let FOX and the American Idolproducers 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 originally was brought in to replace Paula Abdul.  Simon Cowell also made last season his last season.  She goes on to say:

“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.”

I can totally see how difficult it would be for her to criticize and hurt people’s feelings. American Idol creator and executive producer Simon Fuller says of the news:

“I loved Ellen’s passion for the artists and her nurturing skills,” “She brought honesty and optimism to our judging panel and I will miss her greatly.”

Is American Idol on its way out? First there was Paula Abdul, then Simon Cowell and now Ellen DeGeneres.  On top of that the summer tour is not doing well at all.

Are you surprised by Ellen‘s news? What do you think the future is for American Idol with all the departures?

Photo:  WENN