American Idol: Headed for Hollywood

After four weeks of audition shows and tens of thousands of hopefuls vying for one of the coveted spots as a contestant on the popular reality music show known as "American Idol", the show is ready to move to Hollywoood with 181 guys and girls all looking to follow in the footsteps of Kelly ClarksonKelly Clarkson, Ruben Stoddard, FantasiaFantasia Barrino, Carrie UnderwoodCarrie Underwood, Taylor HicksTaylor Hicks, Jordin Sparks, David Cook, and Kris AllenKris Allen as the winner of "American Idol"

The biggest change in the show as it goes into its ninth season is at the judge's table. After new judge Kara DioGuardi and host Ryan SeacrestRyan Seacrest negotiated new contracts, Paula AbdulPaula Abdul too took to the negotiating table. Seeing that Seacrest bargained for a three year deal that will total $45 million dollars, Abdul insisted on $20 per year. 19 Entertainment offered her $10 million and Abdul said no and walked away from the show..

Celebrity guest judges joined Randy JacksonRandy Jackson, Kara DioGuardi, and Simon Cowell at the judges table during auditions while a search for a new judge went on. Talk show host and comedian Ellen DeGeneres was named as the new judge to sit in the spot left open by Paula Abdul's departure. While she admittedly has no musical background, DeGeneres says that she is a perfect choice because she can be the voice of the average viewer.

De Generes takes her place at the judge's table beginning next week when the contestants and judges face Hollywood week and the paring down to the top 12 finalists.