In a surprising move that should bring a new shot of energy to the hit show. American Idol announced late yesterday that the popular TV talk show host would be filling the shoes of the recently departed singer/dancer as a fourth judge.
Why Ellen DeGeneres Is a Great Choice
Ellen DeGeneres will join American Idol in its ninth season following the surprising announcement in August 2009 that long-time judge Paula Abdul would not be returning amidst contract disputes.
DeGeneres has been a avid supporter of American Idol on her own hit syndicated TV talk show, often recapping each week’s episode, as well as inviting show judges, winners and departing contestants to be guests.
It's true that she doesn't have the music business pedigree that fellow judges Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Kara DioGuardi, along with show host Ryan Seacrest, have. But as a veteran stand-up comedian and talk show host, she understands the pressure of performing in front of live audiences.
Also, as evident from her show, she has a vast love of music and brings with her a fan’s perspective to the judging process. She’s not a jaded music biz vet. She’s the person who, for eight seasons, watched every episode and has participated in the voting process alongside the average fan at home.
She’s going to be the judge that a lot of the voting public will relate to.
How American Idol Will Benefit
By tapping the talents of DeGeneres, American Idol gains a fresh outlook on the judging process.
From her early days in the comedy clubs in her hometown of New Orleans, DeGeneres has covered the spectrum of entertainment, from stand-up to acting to best-selling author to hit award-winning talk show host. She can relate to what the contestants are going through and can really offer a unique judging perspective, as well as some great advice to these budding performers.
The long-running reality contest show also gains by the fact that a majority of Ellen’s army of fans, who may not have watched the show, will now be tuning in to see their favorite comedian. That’s a new potential audience in the millions.
And even though DeGeneres did often give air time on her syndicated show to American Idol recaps and guests, there’s a whole new tie-in that creates an exclusive synergy between the Emmy Award-winning shows. The reality show now has a foothold during daytime TV, exposing itself to a new audience demographic on a regular daily basis.
“We’re all delighted to have Ellen join our ninth season of American Idol,” said executive producer Cecile Frot-Coutaz, in a press release announcing the news. “Beyond her incredible sense of humor and love of music, she brings with her an immense warmth and compassion that is almost palpable. She is one of America’s foremost entertainers, and we cannot wait to have her join our team.”
The Upcoming Season of American Idol
DeGeneres will join the American Idol judges table following the show’s audition process that sees it visiting Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Los Angeles and Orlando looking for the best contestants.
In a press release, DeGeneres commented, “I’m thrilled to be the new judge on American Idol. 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.”
In addition to Ellen, the new season will feature appearances by guest judges Victoria Beckham, Mary J. Blige, Kristin Chenoweth, Joe Jonas, Neil Patrick Harris, Avril Lavigne, Katy Perry and Shania Twain.
The ninth season of American Idol premieres January 2010 on the FOX network.
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Michelle Snow - Michelle Snow been a freelance journalist and photographer for over twenty years, specializing in travel and entertainment. She got her ...
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