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Ellen DeGeneres bails on 'American Idol'

By April MacIntyre Jul 30, 2010, 2:34 GMT

05/26/2010 - Ellen Degeneres - 2010 American Idol Season 9 Finale - Arrivals - Nokia Theater - Los Angeles, CA. USA © Albert L. Ortega / PR Photos

Adding to the fluctuating panel for FOX reality earner "American Idol" is the news that chat show comic Ellen DeGeneres has ended her run as a judge for the next season.

DeGeneres served only the ninth season as judge that saw the departure of Simon Cowell, the anchor producer and personality of the show.

Here are the official statements from all parties:

"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. "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."

"We love Ellen and understand and support her decision to bow out of ‘Idol,' " said Peter Rice, chairman of entertainment, Fox Networks Group. "We were fortunate to receive the humor, energy and love for talent that she brought to the show."

"It was a joy to work with Ellen," added Mike Darnell, president of alternative entertainment, Fox Broadcasting Company. "She brought an incredible spirit to ‘Idol' and was a great new addition to the team. 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."

"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."

"We will miss Ellen, she has been the consummate professional throughout her time on the show, and she'll always be part of the ‘American Idol' family," added Cecile Frot-Coutaz, "Idol" executive producer.