Ellen DeGeneres is New American Idol Judge

Talk show host Ellen DeGeneres will sit alongside Randy Jackson, Simon Cowell and Kara DioGuardi as the new American Idol judge. Ellen will add in her unique perspectives as the fourth judge when season 9 of American Idol premieres in January.

This announcement from Fox comes about a month after Paula Abdul stated that she will not be returning to the show. DeGeneres will join the judges panel after the already in progress auditions.

"I'm thrilled to be the new judge on American Idol," DeGeneres said. "I've watched since the beginning, and I've always been a huge fan. So getting this job is a dream come true, and think of all the money I'll save from not having to text my vote."

American Idol executive producer and creator Simon Fuller is excited to have DeGeneres on board. "I could not be more excited to have Ellen join the American Idol family," Fuller said. "Ellen has been a fan of the show for many years, and her love of music and understanding of the American public will bring a unique human touch to our judging panel. I can't wait for this next season to begin."

Some guest judges for season 9 of American Idol include Victoria Beckham, Mary J. Blige, Kristin Chenoweth, Joe Jonas, Neil Patrick Harris, Avil Lavigne, Katy Perry, and Shania Twain.