Ellen DeGeneres signed up for “American Idol” with the hopes of helping new singers succeed in their quests for fame and fortune. Unfortunately for her, what she found was a grouchy Simon and a daily dose of hurting people’s feelings. So Ellen has officially voted herself off of the show.

Ellen announced on her official website:

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.

After Simon announced his departure, I was sure that Ellen would stay on longer, given that there were rumors of a rift between the two of them.

Either way, she’s a bright personality and “Idol” is just a sinking ship that she chose not to go down with. Now they’re probably going to hire Jessica Simpson and Bret Michaels. Oh what fun that’s going to be!

Who should take Ellen’s seat on the show?

source: [ellen degeneres' website]