Ellen too nice for Amercian Idol

Ellen DeGeneres is leaving American Idol because she doesn’t like "hurting people's feelings".

The talk show host joined the talent programme last year, following Paula Abdul’s exit. Her fellow judge Simon Cowell announced he was leaving the show on her first full day on the job this year, but Ellen insisted she didn’t take the timing personally.

Despite signing a multiyear contract, Ellen has now confirmed she won’t be taking part in new seasons of the programme. She has found her work schedule too busy, and also dislikes telling people they aren’t good enough to pursue their dreams.

"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 explained in a 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 realised 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."

Simon Fuller, who created the show and is its executive producer, praised Ellen’s "honesty and optimism" and said she will be hugely missed. Cowell added he has "huge respect" for the talk show host, because she has always "been in control of her own destiny".

Ellen and Simon’s fellow judges Randy Jackson and Kara DioGuardi have no plans to hand in their notice, but Ellen’s decision means there are now two spots free on the panel.

It has been claimed Jennifer Lopez is taking one of the spaces, with her contract currently being worked on. She has reportedly agreed to be paid Ellen’s salary, which is part of the reason Ellen resigned yesterday.

"Jennifer accepted the Idol judge position," a source told the American edition of OK! magazine. "They are ironing out contracts as we speak so unless something goes wrong it’s a done deal."

Jennifer’s representative and show bosses haven’t commented on the report.

Justin Timberlake, P. Diddy and Jessica Simpson have also been linked to the programme recently, as has Courtney Love. She is rumoured to be in the early stages of negotiations, and seemed to discuss the possibility of appearing on her Twitter page.

"wonder if i should take this job? hmm waiting on my litmus of tasteful friends who i love the most," she wrote. "yeah kids lets wait on this, its a bit,,,, preamture iom not sure i would want to do it. im thinking, actually waiting on 2 peoples opinions (sic)."

- Cover Media