Ellen DeGeneres Not to Take Simon Cowell's Exit Personally

Mon, 11 January 2010 21:39:24 ET

Although joking that she is to blame for the sharp-tongue judge's departure, the new 'American Idol' judge praises Cowell for making 'the show what it is.'

Simon Cowell has finally confirmed circulating rumors that he is leaving "American Idol", and the show's new judge Ellen DeGeneres was one of the first people making comment on his departure. In an episode of "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" which is scheduled to air Tuesday, January 12, the comedienne jokes that she is to blame for his exit.

During the episode's taping on Monday, January 11, the 51-year-old revealed, "I got some news for you. So this just happened, Simon Cowell just announced that he's leaving 'Idol.' " She went on saying, "This will be his last season. He announced he's leaving on my first day. I'm trying not to take it personally."

On a more serious note, the life partner of actress Portia de Rossi expressed her thoughts, "But seriously, I am going to be very, very sad to see him go, because I think he's made the show what it is. He's a huge part of that show but he wanted a change." Nonetheless, she made another joke as saying, "I wish him all the luck in the world hosting 'The Tonight Show'."

Simon Cowell made the announcement that season nine of "American Idol" will be hist last on Monday, January 11. He also confirmed that he'll focus on bringing "The X Factor" to the U.S., saying "The X Factor will launch in 2011. Because of that, this will be my last season on American Idol."

To the press, the music executive admitted to have considered working on both shows. "We did talk about me staying on both shows but when we looked at the practicalities of that, it was impossible," he said. "In my opinion, it's like having a good player and a good football team. The two have to be okay together."

"I believe it's not my show, but it's still very close to me," he went on explaining. "We made sure when we did this, that I would be protected. I'm confident it will continue to be the No. 1 show. Everyone is committed to keeping it that way." As for speculation he'll work again with former "Idol" judge Paula Abdul, he simply responded, "I adore Paula. Whatever happens, I will be working with her in some capacity. Because I miss her."

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