DeGeneres out of 'American Idol,' J.Lo reportedly in

Ellen DeGeneres’ journey as “Idol” judge came to an end after just one season. She was brought on for the ninth season last September as a replacement for Paula Abdul, who exited in a contract dispute.

DeGeneres leaves “Idol”
According to several published reports, including People.com, Forbes and MTV, the 51-year-old popular comedian/US television personality Ellen is bowing out of the music competition series.

According to People.com, Ellen says she approached Fox and Idol’s producers months ago to let them know about her decision to step down from her position as Idol’s newest judge.

“A couple months ago, I let FOX and the American Idol producers know that this didn’t feel like the right fit for me,” the magazine quoted her as saying 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.”

According to People.com, Ellen says she approached Fox and Idol’s producers months ago to let them know about her decision to step down from her position as Idol’s newest judge.

The comic-turned-sitcom-star-turned-daytime-talk-show-host continues: “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.”

Suits behind the show let Ellen go
People.com and Washington Post report that the suits behind the show and Fox Networks Group have confirmed Ellen’s departure in the following statements, saying her presence will be missed on the show.

“Idol” creator and executive producer Simon Fuller issued a statement, saying: “I loved Ellen’s passion for the artists and her nurturing skills. She brought honesty and optimism to our judging panel and I will miss her greatly.”

Peter Rice, the FOX entertainment chairman, says, “We love Ellen and understand and support her decision to bow out of Idol. We were fortunate to receive the humor, energy and love for talent that she brought to the show.”

J.Lo appears to be Idol’s new Paula Abdul
Meanwhile, several online reports are popping up with claims that Jennifer Lopez is the latest potential new judge on “American Idol.”

According to a report by the Associated Press, Lopez, whose film credits include "Selena" and "The Back-Up Plan," is close to signing a deal to join Fox TV's hit singing contest as a judge.

Also, an industry source tells People.com that J.Lo has closed a deal to become a permanent judge on American Idol’s season 10.

“It’s true,” the magazine quoted one insider as saying. “She’s excited about it.”

Another source says Lopez’s longtime manager, Benny Medina, has been in talks with “Idol” producers for months to bring Jennifer on board.

The 41-year-old mom of twins Max and Emme will join judges Randy Jackson and Kara DioGuardi on the panel, the source said.