Ellen Degeneres Replaces Paula Abdul on American Idol

It's strange that they would choose someone with no musical background...politics, I tell ya.

The Fox series has announced a deal that would make the talk show host/comic the new fourth judge on America's top-rated show. She would replace Paula Abdul, who quit "Idol" over the summer due to a salary scuffle.

"I'm thrilled to be the new judge on American Idol," said DeGeneres in Fox's news release. "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."