After just one season, Ellen DeGeneres is bowing out as a judge on 'American Idol,' FOX announced in a statement Thursday. After the news hit, DeGeneres tweeted, "Dim the lights ... I've voted myself off 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," DeGeneres said in the FOX statement. "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."
In the same statement from FOX, 'Idol' creator Simon Fuller shared his thoughts. "I loved Ellen's passion for the artists and her nurturing skills. She brought honesty and optimism to our judging panel and I will miss her greatly."DeGeneres is the second judge to depart after the ninth season -- Simon Cowell made headlines earlier this year when he announced his plans to leave to focus on bringing a new show to American audiences, 'The X Factor.'
In a statement to The Hollywood Reporter on the occasion of Ellen's resignation, Cowell said, "As I got to know Ellen, I grew to really, really like her. I have huge respect for her because she's always been in control of her own destiny."Ryan Seacrest also chimed in on his Twitter: "I will miss her on 'Idol.' She's one of the kindest and most talented people in Hollywood!"
Rumors are running rampant in Hollywood about who will succeed Cowell and DeGeneres in the judge's chairs. Names thrown around include Jessica Simpson, Justin Timberlake and Sean 'Diddy' Combs.