Funnywoman and successful talk show host Ellen DeGeneres recently signed a deal that officially hits the nail in the coffin for Paula Abdul’s departure from Americal Idol.  DeGeneres has signed a 5-year deal with ICM.  She will be occupying Abdul’s vacant seat through at least the thirteenth season of AI.  Says DeGeneres: “I’m thrilled to be the new judge on American Idol.  I’ve watched since the beginning, and I’vealways 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.”  Question is, what does Ellen know about musical talent?  She’s a comedian; sure she’ll bring laughs to the show, but how can she properly contribute to the show’s search for the next greatest singer if she doesn’t have a trained ear for it?  I hope my perplexity is eased once things get rolling.  One thing’s for sure–I know I’ll miss drunken Abdul drinking “cola” from the judge’s table.  (FYI–I haven’t watched AI in its entirety since the premiere season.  If you do not watch the show, please let me recommend you to at least witness the hilarity that is the first few “audition episodes.”  It’s a treat.

[Via Deadline]