Ellen, 51, is extremely excited to join the show and insists that she’s going to be the people’s voice as a judge.

“Hopefully, I’m the people’s point of view because I’m just like you,” DeGeneres explained when she revealed the news.

“I sit at home and I watch it, and I don’t have that technical … I’m not looking at it in a critical way from the producer’s mind. I’m looking at it as a person who is going to buy the music and is going to relate to that person.”

Much like former Idol judge Paula Abdul, Ellen is taking the opposite approach towards idol hopefuls than her judging counterpart Simon Cowell.

“I’m not going to be mean,” she tells On Air With Ryan Seacrest. “I hate it when Simon’s that mean.”

Ellen is taking a few tips from Paula when it comes to judging this season’s contestants. “I think you can be honest in a pretty kind way. I hope to be that compassionate person. That’s the one thing Paula did bring, that compassion.”

And how does Paula Abdul feel about Ellen’s new role?

“I think Ellen will b a gr8 judge on Idol,” Abdul tweeted today. “She is wildly funny, talented and I wish her the best of luck!”

What do you think of Ellen as the next American Idol judge?

Abdul was going to receive a 30 percent increase over last season (earning her eight figures) but that just wasn’t enough for the controversial star.

Paula confirmed her departure on her Twitter page, where shocked fans lent their support. Even Idol host Ryan Seacrest expressed his sadness and shock via his Twitter account.

“About to go to sleep when I started seeing my blackberry blow up. I have read what u have read and I am shocked and saddened about paula,” Ryan said in his Tweet.

Many are wondering whether Paula’s announcement is a plea for more money (and publicity and outrage) or if she seriously doesn’t plan on returning next season.

Paula’s crazy behavior combined with her and fellow judge Simon Cowell’s undeniable chemistry will be greatly missed on the show. New Idol addition Kara Dioguardi will be remaining on the show – but was she enough of a hit with fans to keep the ratings up? Only time will tell.

We’re opening the floor up to true Idol fans – Who would you prefer to stay on the show: Paula or Kara?