WOW! 

Ellen DeGeneres has quit American Idol after just one season on the judging panel. Ellen issued a statement on Thursday night, which read: “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.”

She continued, “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.”

Idol creator and executive producer Simon Fuller said in the statement, “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.”

Ellen replaced Paula Abdul as a judge for the show’s ninth season, joining Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Kara DioGuardi on the panel.

Simon exited the show at the season’s end, prompting widespread speculation as to who will take his place.

Rumour has it that Jennifer Lopez is in the running to be a judge on the show!

Anyone else think the show will suck even more this season?