Television September 14, 2010
Ellen on 'Idol': 'I Couldn't Hurt Their Feelings'
"Extra's" Terri Seymour sat down with talk show host Ellen DeGeneres to talk about why she left "American Idol" after just one season.
"It was an energy that just didn't feel right to me," the comedian told Terri.
"American Idol" is known for telling contestants the truth, even if it hurts -- and Ellen said she had too much compassion when it came to giving contestants what was sometimes the harsh truth.
"I just couldn't do it... I couldn't hurt their feelings," she said. "I couldn't be completely honest, which is what that show is supposed to be."
"Idol" has been through some major changes this season. Both Simon Cowell and Kara DioGuardi departed from the judges' panel after season nine as well -- and now it's reported that Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler have signed up to fill the empty musical chairs.
Tune in to "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" weekdays. Click here for local listings.
This week, Ellen welcomes Jane Lynch and Daughtry on Wednesday, Ben Affleck and Mike Posner on Thursday -- plus, the Olsen Twins and the winner of "America's Got Talent" on Friday!