Critics: Ellen DeGeneres "Fit Right In" on Idol
Credit: Michael Becker/FOX
Ellen DeGeneres hit a high note with critics -- and fans -- for her American Idol debut Tuesday.
The New York Times noted she was "witty both in her embraces and her take-downs." The Los Angeles Times lauded her "calm demeanor and deadpan wit."
Said Entertainment Weekly: "Not only did the comedian/talk-show host treat the Paula Abdul Memorial Chair with a level of dignity and purpose that it had never before experienced, but she wasn't afraid to dole out tough criticism when necessary."
New York Daily News observed that the difference between DeGeneres, 52, and Simon Cowell "became clear" on Tuesday's show.
To one singer, Cowell, 50, sniped, "I hated everything about that." To another, he yawned, "Wrong, wrong, wrong."
See old funny photos of the Idol judges (nice hair, Simon!)
DeGeneres' worst remarks? "I'm tired as it is - that almost put me out"; "It was crazy - in a bad way."
MTV said DeGeneres "provided exactly what the panel lacked in the past - a strong, confident voice of reason with the right combination of humor and useful advice."
Said E! News: "She fit right in. Not only did the show wisely not dwell on her too much, leaving the emphasis on the terrifying 'sudden death' round of Hollywood week, but she wasn't too funny, either."
See all the celebs who've danced with Ellen!
Fans sang her praises as well. On a fan site, one person wrote that DeGeneres was "a breath of fresh air" and "everything I expected and then some."
Tell Us: Do you think Ellen made a good Idol judge?
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20Ellen did such a great job! I was definitely entertained!
@Nicole, it is all over the internet that Stern is considering being on Idol, and that so-called Idol people were talking to him about it. He wants 10 million though, and can't see that happening. If he goes on Idol, well just end it after this season then.
I was plesantly surprised how Ellen was on Idol. I thought she would over joke like she did on SYTYCD but she didn't. Atleast not what they showed. I loved the comment "she will be annoying" when they were deciding on who to pick and she muttered that. If Ellen continues to be this way, and to make it more about the singers than the judges this season will be great. Hope Casey James goes all the way........(no bun intended, although he does have a porn star's name) LOL!
I completely agree
Did she have prompts for her to read to tell her what to say??
I've always been a big fan of Ellen, and thought she did great on her first night on Idol, didn't try to hog the spotlight; she pays attention and gives honest views. I think she'll do well.
I enjoyed last night's very edited show. Ellen was a great asset. She added a perfect blend of humor with constructive criticism. Welcome aboard, Ellen, you have my vote!
ellen is amazing. just please keep howard stern away from the show.
Tammy, Howard Stern is NOT going to be on the show. Where did you get that from? Next Season it will be Ellen, Randy and Kara.
Agree with Kristin. Ellen is awesome!
Ellen knows nothing about music?? Well, neither does most of America but we still get to call in and vote. Not saying that the contest couldn't be rigged but I see Ellen as the voice of all of us sitting at home. I think she did a great job last night and I think she'll continue to do a great job.
I thought Ellen was soo great! I lobe her and I am happy she is on Idol now!
I think she was great! You could understand everything that everyone on the panel said, which is not something that was possible when Paula was on the show. (There were a lot of 'huh?' moments with her...) I thought she was awesome and I can't wait for tonight's show!
I love Ellen! It doesn't take a rocket scientist to be able to hear if someone is a good singer. I haven't seen the show yet, but Ellen rocks, I know it will be good. She brings balance and a humorous side that the show is lacking! GO ELLEN!!!
She knows nothign about musci so why is she on there
Who cares about Ellen? Idol is over when Simon leaves unless they get someone really loud and truthful like Howard Stern.
i loveellen to death. she did a great job. you could definitely sense the tension between her and simon. it makes for good tv. unfortunately, after being a faithful viewer since the beginning, i won't watch anymore after this season. i hate howard stern!
Ellen did an awesome job. Just the right amount of humor, honest critiques with equal amounts of praise to those who deserved it. Good job.!!
Even though I didn't watch Ellen's debut on Idol last night, she definitely does make a good Judge, and I agree with Critics, etc.
Ellen fit right in. She had a nice sense of humor, but took the auditions seriously. Fun to watch last night.