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Well that was fast! Not that this is so surprising what with Simon leaving, too.

Talk show host Ellen DeGeneres just Tweeted, "Dim the lights...I've voted myself off American Idol." Read her statement below:

    "A couple months ago, I let FOX and the American Idol producers know that this didn't feel like the right fit for me. 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."


Simon Fuller had this to say: "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."

Next year is gonna be nuts! No Ellen and no Simon as judges anymore. Will anyone still watch?