Ellen DeGeneres Steps Down as 'American Idol' Judge

After one season serving as a judge of "American Idol," Ellen DeGeneres is stepping down from her post.


The comedienne released the following statement to "The Insider": "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. 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."
She also tweeted Thursday, "Dim the lights...I've voted myself off American Idol."
"We love Ellen and understand and support her decision to bow out of IDOL," Peter Rice, Chairman of Entertainment, FOX Networks Group told "The Insider." "We were fortunate to receive the humor, energy and love for talent that she brought to the show."
"I loved Ellen's passion for the artists and her nurturing skills," "Idol" creator and executive producer Simon Fuller told us. "She brought honesty and optimism to our judging panel and I will miss her greatly."