Talk show host Ellen DeGeneres has joined "American Idol" as the show's fourth judge.
DeGeneres will join Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Kara DioGuardi on the show's upcoming ninth season.
“I’m thrilled to be the new judge on 'American Idol,'” DeGeneres said in a statement. ”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.”
DeGeneres will join the judges’ panel after the auditions, which will include guest judges Victoria Beckham, Mary J. Blige, Kristin Chenoweth, Joe Jonas, Neil Patrick Harris, Avril Lavigne, Katy Perry and Shania Twain.
“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.”
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