You don’t have to be a huge reality TV fan to know this is big news. Even Nikki Finke pays due respect and notes that once controversial, now beloved, comedian and talk show host Ellen DeGeneres has “broken every gay barrier now that Madison Avenue loves her.” The press release says nothing about it, but the gig on the hugely successful reality show is being touted by Finke and seemingly everyone else as a five-year deal. According to MTV News, not all of the show’s most rabid devotees are on board — even though DeGeneres is a widely known as a fan of the show and says she has watched every episode.
In any case, here’s a couple of quotes from the release, starting with one from the comic herself:
“I’m thrilled to be the new judge on AMERICAN IDOL,” said DeGeneres. ”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 in my vote.”
“I could not be more excited to have Ellen join the AMERICAN IDOL family,” said creator and executive producer Simon Fuller. “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.”
And now, a moment of celebration for Ellen’s fans (and I’m sure her agents aren’t unhappy, either).
