Ellen DeGeneres is the New Judge on American Idol

Ellen DeGeneres (51) was chosen to replace Paul Abdul on American Idol. Fox said in a statement:

"DeGeneres will sit alongside Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Kara DioGuardi and offer her own unique perspective to the contestants throughout the competition."

DeGeneres starts her judging after the audition rounds, which have featured a rotating group of celebrity guest judges including Shania Twain, Victoria Beckham, Mary J. Blige, Joe Jonas and Kristin Chenoweth.

We here Paula Abdul was stunned at being permanently replaced on American Idol by Ellen DeGeneres:

“Privately, Paula is very upset. She’s never going to admit it publicly but this stung.”

Publicly Abdul said:

"AMERICAN IDOL is a fantastic show that offers an invaluable platform to young talent. Ellen DeGeneres is wildly funny and talented in her own right."

"I wish her and the show only the best of luck.”

Abdul must be seething mad, but we’re happy to see her humbled.

Ellen is an incredible choice. With Ellen on the panel of judges American Idol might be able to sustain their viewers’ interest for a few more seasons.