Paula, Don't Let Door Hit You On Way Out: Idol Staff

DeGeneres talks Cowell, Paula Abdul as American Idol returns

(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.”

Sources say Ryan could take over for Cowell; Victoria Beckham guests

(NEWSER) - American Idol’s 2010 season premiered last night, but if you’re wondering how new judge Ellen DeGeneres did, don’t—Victoria Beckham filled in, and not to critics' delight. From her "crazy" face to the "nothing" she added to the commentary, the Daily Mail cites several who were less than impressed with Missus Becks—in spite of the fact that she called out spat-hungry Simon Cowell. More»

Cowell, Abdul in talks to team up on new show

(NEWSER) - Good news for anyone pining for the good ol' days of American Idol: Paula Abdul and Simon Cowell may be reuniting for Cowell’s X Factor. Sources tell TMZ the pair is discussing the possibility of Abdul coming on the US version of his UK hit as a judge. Cowell himself recently said he adores Paula, and “whatever happens, I will be working with her in some capacity, because I miss her,” the New York Daily News adds. More»

The true reality show is at the judges' table, after all

(NEWSER) - Paula Abdul “walked away from a multimillion-dollar salary, a gig that brought her out of obscurity”—but it’s American Idol that will smart the most from her departure, writes Jeanne McManus for the Washington Post. “She generally contributed absolutely nothing to the verdict of the talent that stood before her,” but she will be missed at “that dysfunctional, squabbling dinner table known as the panel of judges.” More»

Believed to be highest-paid reality host

(NEWSER) - Ryan Seacrest isn’t feeling the recession. The ubiquitous TV personality has closed a new deal that's believed to make him the highest-paid reality host, according to the Hollywood Reporter. The American Idol host’s 3-year deal with CKX, Idol’s parent company, is worth $15 million a year—more than triple his previous salary. Though CKX gets Seacrest exclusively for broadcast TV, he will retain separate deals with Comcast and E! More»