Posts Tagged ‘So You Think You Can Dance’

Lopez In(?) & Ellen Out At “Idol”

Posted on 30 Jul 2010 at 12:00pm

American Idol seems poised to shock the entertainment industry for its 10th season.  Word broke yesterday that new judge Ellen DeGeneres will officially not be returning, even after completing just ONE season on her five season contract.  In addition, Kara Dioguardi is also out, after barely returning last season.  Original judge Randy Jackson has one season left on his contract but no one is commenting on whether he will be back.

The shake up is being attributed to the return of original executive producer Nigel Lythgoe, who had defected 2 seasons ago to focus on his So You Think You Can Dance? televsion show.  Apparently the terms of Lythgoe’s return agreed to completely overhaul the entire judging panel, bringing in 3 brand spanking new judges.  Rumors circulating around Elton John and Justin Timberlake occupying judging seats were shot down by their camps. 

However, today there’s news that Jennifer Lopez will be stepping in.  She’s no stranger to the Idol scene – she’s performed on the show, served as a mentor and has publicly praised the show and its format.  Fox is not confirming or denying the report but the industry is abuzz that they will make an official announcement of the new trio at their press conference on Monday, showcasing their new slate of shows for the 2010-11 television season.

Stay tuned to XI MAGAZINE for full coverage and new developments.