Early today, American Idol judge, Ellen DeGeneres, announced she is leaving the show, after being on it for only one season. The US Talk Show host and comedian was originally asked to be on the show last year, as a replacement for Paula Abdul. She would have to have a two year contract with the management.

But her performance as judge left viewers gravely disappointed as she didn’t bring anything worthy to the table. She released an official statement in relation to her departure, saying: “It was a difficult decision to make, but my work schedule became more than I bargained for. I also realized this season that while I love discovering, supporting and nurturing young talent, it was hard for me to judge people and sometimes hurt their feelings.”

Simon Cowell, who has been a judge on the show since the first season, has announced leaving American Idol as early as last year. He is doing his own talent show contest and it will be launched in 2011. There have been plenty of names cropping up as possible replacement for the British judge. But there remains no final word from the people behind the show yet.

Now, they will also have to look for a replacement for Ellen DeGeneres. It’s been rumored that Jennifer Lopez has reportedly signed on the show.

It’s also been confirmed that the show’s former Executive Producer, Nigel Lythgoe is coming back and his first order of business is to really revamp the judge panel, hence all these changes.

What do you think will happen to American Idol this coming season?