Posted by Adam

Friday July 30, 2010

ELLEN DeGeneres is bowing out of American Idol!

“A couple months ago, I let FOX and the American Idol producers know that this didn’t feel like the right fit for me,” Ellen said in a statement Thursday.

“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.”

Ellen became a full-time judge on the show during its ninth season

“I loved Ellen’s passion for the artists and her nurturing skills,” said Idol creator and executive producer Simon Fuller.

“She brought honesty and optimism to our judging panel and I will miss her greatly.”

Tags: american idol, ellen degeneres