The Ellen Show: Ellen DeGeneres Replacing Paula Abdul on 'American Idol'

Good Choice????

((YES or NO)) -

Ellen DeGeneres will replace Paula Abdul as a permanent 'American Idol' judge,

"I'm thrilled to be the new judge on 'American Idol.' 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," De More..Generes says.

But Ellen isn't abandoning her talk show. "I'm going to have a day job and a night job. The times we're living in ... we're all doing that."

Watch Ellen Make Her Big Announcement

'Idol' executive producer Simon Fuller is pleased with the decision to hire DeGeneres.

"I could not be more excited to have Ellen join the 'American Idol' family. 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," Fuller says.

Abdul announced in August via Twitter that she would not be returning to her judging role on 'Idol.' Many reports cite a salary dispute as the reason she left the show, with some estimates saying she asked for $10 million per season but did not get an offer that high. She's since been tapped to host VH1's 'Divas' concert on 9/17, and her name has been floated for other reality judging roles.