Idol Shakeup! Ellen and Kara are Out, J.Lo is In!

The last few days have seen some major changes at “American Idol.” Simon Cowell’s departure has been known for awhile now, and numerous celebs have been mentioned as possible
replacements. Then Thursday Ellen DeGeneres, who never seemed comfortable in her role as a judge, confirmed the rumors that she would be leaving the show after one season. The TV host Tweeted: “Dim the lights … I’ve voted myself off American Idol. It was hard for me to judge people and sometimes hurt their feelings. I am very grateful for the year I had. I am a huge fan of the show and will continue to be.”

While Ellen’s departure seems to have been voluntary, the same can’t be said forKara DioGuardi—she was unceremoniously given the boot. Although the deal is still in the works, look for singer/actress Jennifer Lopez to join the “Idol’s” panel next season. Still on board is Randy Jackson, and the front-runner for the third judge’s chair is Aerosmith rocker Steven Tyler. The flashy frontman is currently in L.A. meeting with “Idol” producers.

Industry insiders expect the new lineup to be in place on Monday, when Fox will present their fall shows to the Television Critics Association’s fall convention. It remains to be seen whether these changes will help the aging show’s faltering ratings.