Ellen joins American Idol

As though it wasn’t weird enough seeing Ellen DeGeneres as a guest judge on So You Think You Can Dance last season, at least I could see the relevance.  Well, sort off.  Ellen dances on her show, so seasoned, phenomenally talented dancers would naturally want her opinion on their dancing abilities.  Yeah, it’s a leap. But it’s not the bungee jump producers of American Idol took when the signed Ellen on to replace Paula Abdul.  What exactly does Ellen DeGeneres have to do with music?  Simon Fuller explained the decision in a press release. “Ellen has been a fan of the show for many years…” Well so have I, but nobody’s offered me a gazillion dollars to sit next to Simon Cowell and give my opinion (I give my opinion for free).  Speaking of sitting next to Simon Cowell, it’s incredibly hard to picture ever optimistic Ellen enduring Simon’s scathing remarks.  Paula did for years, but I think she was drunk most of the time.

I’m not thrilled with the choice, even though I think Ellen is ok.  I will just miss Paula’s whacky comments.  

Paula Abdul leaves Idol

Paula Abdul has announced (via Twitter) that she won’t be returning to American Idol this season. I’m so sad to see her go, because even though I don’t understand what she’s talking about, she’s the most entertaining part of the show.  She and Simon bicker like siblings, but even so, they compliment each other on the show. Simon offers his stinking criticisms and Paula cushions the blows.

No matter how bizarre or disastrous a performance, Paula can always find something positive to say. “Constructive criticism is about finding something good and positive to soften the blow to the real critique of what really went on.”  I think more people could use that skill.

During negotiations with Idol’s producers, Paula received support from her fans. She wrote “What I want to say most is how much I appreciate the undying support and enormous love that you have showered upon me… It truly has been breathtaking, especially over the past month.”

According to Radar Online, Paula wanted $20 million to return to the show. The astronomical figure is a fraction of what producers offered Ryan Seacrest, reportedly $45 million over three years or Simon Cowell, reportedly $144 million. Simon is clearly viewed as the reason why millions tune in to the show, which rakes in $900 million in advertising and promotion. I guess we’ll find out how much weight the snarky Brit really carries with the American public this coming season because Randy Jackson and newbie judge Kara Dioguardi are non factors.

I’ll miss Paula, to be sure. I don’t think the show will be nearly as entertaining without her crazy quotes or bizarre antics. I will still tune in though, if only to satisfy my curiosity.

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