Ellen DeGeneres is leaving “American Idol,” setting in motion a major shakeup for the top-rated Fox show.
With Simon Cowell leaving, Kara DioGuardi’s contract up in the air, and Nigel Lythgoe reportedly set to return as executive producer, and with the show’s ratings in decline over recent seasons, an overhaul is expected. Decisions are likely to be announced Monday when Fox meets with the Television Critics Association in L.A.
In a statement, DeGeneres acknowledged what critics have said of her performance from the start: it wasn’t a good fit and she had trouble being critical of contenders.
The statement from DeGeneres:
“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.”
Peter Rice, Chairman of Entertainment, Fox Networks Group, issued an upbeat acceptance of her resignation. “We were fortunate to receive the humor, energy and love for talent that she brought to the show.”
Mike Darnell, Fox’s President of Alternative Entertainment, added that, “while we’re saddened by her decision, we are very appreciative that she gave us ample notice so that we could work through it together.”
Whether the decision was all the comedian’s, or Fox executives realized now is the time to make major adjustments to a panel that wasn’t clicking, is yet to be determined.
Joanne Ostrow: 303-954-1830 or jostrow@denverpost.com
