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Ellen: Simon Is Smart But Mean

DeGeneres talks Cowell, Paula Abdul as American Idol returns

By Evann Gastaldo,  Newser Staff

Posted Jan 8, 2010 10:38 AM CST

(Newser) – Ellen DeGeneres makes her debut as the newest American Idol judge on Tuesday, and she talks Simon Cowell (he’s “smart,” but “mean” and “insensitive”) and more with the Wall Street Journal:

  • Paula Abdul: “I don't know if I'll be as nurturing as she is. I'll probably try to be somewhat encouraging. But I'll be honest. I don't think it helps anybody to be encouraged and not told the truth.”

  • Simon: “We both like each other and accept one another. At the same time I think he's mean and I think he says things in an insensitive way and I don't think that's the way to get a point across. We'll respectfully disagree sometimes.”
  • Preparation: “I'm starting to criticize everyone I see, no matter what. I'm like, you thought that was a good outfit to wear? I just start criticizing people.”
  • Past Idols: “I love Carrie Underwood, Kellie Pickler and Kelly Clarkson. Those are my favorites.”
For the complete Q&A, click here.

In this undated publicity image released by Fox, new American Idol, judge Ellen DeGeneres is shown.
In this undated publicity image released by Fox, new "American Idol," judge Ellen DeGeneres is shown.   (AP Photo/Fox, Michael Becker)
In this Aug. 26, 2008 file photo, American Idol judges, from left, Simon Cowell, Kara DioGuardi, Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson arrive at a promotional event for the show in New York.
In this Aug. 26, 2008 file photo, "American Idol" judges, from left, Simon Cowell, Kara DioGuardi, Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson arrive at a promotional event for the show in New York.   (AP Photo/Jason DeCrow, file)
Ellen DeGeneres and Simon Cowell are shown in this combination photo.
Ellen DeGeneres and Simon Cowell are shown in this combination photo.   (Associated Press)
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COMMENTS
Showing 3 of 8 comments
Snarfeh
Jan 9, 2010 1:30 AM CST
@Jgirl - Clearly, Ellen has mastered vibrato....
ezzy4863
Jan 8, 2010 11:56 AM CST
You are an "ASS" Observer
the007feed
Jan 8, 2010 9:23 AM CST
Ellen has said that she would bring the opinion of the average viewer...like the ones who vote week in over and over...so it makes sense that she's a judge because she's the public's voice.
 

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