News

Ellen Degeneres joins the "American Idol" judges this week

It isn't uncommon for a series to create a lot of buzz in its first few seasons, but few maintain it for long as they blend into the prime-time landscape.

So it's astounding that, in its ninth season, "American Idol" is again one of the most talked-about shows on television. The contestants, of course, provide the usual water-cooler fodder, but there's much more going on this time around.

A judging panel shakeup has had fans and detractors up in arms since Paula Abdul announced she was leaving in August. Her replacement was the subject of much speculation in the days that followed, until producers finally settled on talk show host and comedian Ellen Degeneres. She'll take her seat at the "American Idol" judge's table Tuesday, Feb. 9, on Fox.

The comedian joins what has become the world's biggest talent search. Hosted by Ryan Seacrest, "American Idol" has given millions of hopefuls the chance to make it big and snag a lucrative recording contract. The show's judges have the opportunity to narrow that field down and then influence the voting public with their critiques and comments once the finalists have been chosen.

It's been a long wait for Degeneres fans, who were likely disappointed to find out the comedian would not be participating in the audition round of the show. Instead, regular judges Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Kara DioGuardi were joined by a dazzling array of celebrity guest judges that included Neil Patrick Harris, Shania Twain, Victoria Beckham, Mary J. Blige, Avril Lavigne and Katy Perry.

Each guest judge brought his or her own unique input, ranging from hilarious to biting, but it's time for Degeneres to add her two cents.

"I'm thrilled to be the new judge on 'American Idol,' " said Degeneres. "I've watched since the beginning, and I've always been a huge fan. So getting this job is a dream come true, and think of all the money I'll save from not having to text in my vote."

All kidding aside, the Emmy-winning talker is expected to reinvigorate the show, which though still popular, has seen its once rock-solid ratings quiver slightly. This season's debut dropped to just under 30 million, a fair bit lower than the show's high point of 37.4 million for the 2007 season opener.  

"American Idol" used guest judges (such as Victoria Beckham, second from left) to fill in before Ellen joined the cast

Degeneres has established herself as a popular performer and "everywoman," in stark contrast to Abdul's sometimes puzzling antics on the show. After a few unusual comments and alleged erratic exploits off-screen, speculation whirled that Abdul had been abusing alcohol and/or drugs. She has always denied such claims, however, and no one has stepped up with proof.

Although Abdul maintained that she did not return to "Idol" on principle, her departure was widely attributed to a salary dispute. She had been with the show since the beginning in 2002.

Known for her kind and encouraging words, Abdul more often than not found something nice to say about almost every performance. It remains to be seen whether Degeneres will play a similar role, and what she'll have to add alongside Jackson, Cowell and DioGuardi, who are all seasoned veterans of the recording industry.

A Grammy-winning producer, Jackson has worked with the likes of Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston, Celine Dion, 'N Sync, Madonna, Elton John and Destiny's Child, so he knows what to look for in a future star.

And highly sought-after songwriter and producer, DioGuardi has had a hand in several international hits and helped more than 40 albums crack onto Billboard's famous charts. She may not have been a familiar face before she joined "Idol" as a fourth judge last season, but her songs are everywhere: she's had 268 songs released on major labels.

Cowell, who came to the series after judging its British predecessor "Pop Idol," has helped shape the popular music landscape as an executive with Sony Records.

Amidst all of these experts, music-lover Degeneres represents the voice of the audience. In interviews about her "Idol" gig, the Emmy winner has stressed that she looks at the show from the point of view of the fans.

Despite all the good vibes, Degeneres and other "Idol" fans got some disturbing news back in January. Cowell, who has been with the show since the beginning, announced he would be leaving at the end of this season.

With critiques that range from frank to downright mean, he's gained a reputation as the judge "American Idol" fans love to hate. But it isn't the frequent booing that's driving him out. He'll be preparing to launch "The X Factor," another competition show that's already a hit in Britain and is scheduled to hit these airwaves in the fall of 2011.

Such a shakeup may disappoint a lot of "Idol" fans, but experts argue that such turnover may be good for the show. They hope that switching up the hosting roster could inject new life into the show and fend off viewer boredom with new personalities and judging styles.

It seems everyone has high hopes for what Degeneres can bring to the series. Watch Tuesday, Feb. 9, to find out if she lives up to the hype.