Ellen DeGeneres joins judges' table on 'American Idol'

Talk show host Ellen DeGeneresEllen DeGeneres will join the judges' panel on "American Idol" for the show's ninth season beginning in 2010, a Fox spokeswoman confirmed Wednesday.

Talk show host Ellen DeGeneres brings years of experience in front of a live audience to her role.

"I'm thrilled to be the new judge on American Idol," DeGeneres said Wednesday. "I've watched since the beginning, and I've always 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."

The popular comedian and entertainer will fill a seat left vacant by Paula AbdulPaula Abdul, who announced she was leaving the show in August after eight seasons.

DeGeneres will sit alongside Simon CowellSimon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Kara DioGuardi after auditions are completed for the popular talent show, which starts in January. Until then, guest judges including Mary J. Blige, Kristin ChenowethKristin Chenoweth, Joe Jonas and Neil Patrick HarrisNeil Patrick Harris will fill the empty slot, Fox said.

"We are thrilled to have Ellen DeGeneres join the "American Idol" judges' table this season. She is truly one of America's funniest people and a fantastic performer who understands what it's like to stand up in front of audiences and entertain them every day," said Mike Darnell, president of Alternative Entertainment for Fox.