Ellen + Idol = huh?

Ellen Degeneres has become the newest judge on American Idol after signing a five-year deal with the company. No, you read that right, Ellen Degeneres has become the fourth judge on American Idol. Ellen. Degeneres.

Great in her own right, Ellen has definitely carved her place into this world. She is funny, likes to dance, and is with Portia Di Rossi, one of the most beautiful women on television. But where in her resume does music critic come in?

Many fans, while liking Ellen immensely, cannot help but wonder where American Idol is going now. At least at one point all of the judges had some experience in the music business. Newest judge Kara brought, in some opinions, a little bit of credibility to the show, since she can actually sing and write songs. Not that the show was all about business. We will have no more of that fun (and admittedly sexy chemistry) between Paula and Simon. Or the same chemistry found between Simon and Ryan.

Filling Paula's shoes will be hard. Although not the most talented singer in the world, she brought compassion and hope to many would-be and would-never-be singers. Ellen, while sweet, may just take up a lot of airtime with her trademark nervous banter and endless rambling.

Does Simon know what he is getting into?