by A lot of people thought Ellen DeGeneres seemed uncomfortable as a judge last season on FOX's American Idol, including DeGeneres, who just put out a statement late today that she would not return to the series.
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.
Related: One of the things keeping her busy is her own record label, which she announced she was starting this summer after pre-teen Greyson Michael Chance's videos singing and playing the piano blew up on YouTube.
