Ellen DeGeneres out as 'American Idol' judge after 1 season on hit singing contest

Lynn Elber, The Associated Press

LOS ANGELES, Calif. - Ellen DeGeneres is leaving "American Idol" after one season as a judge for the hit Fox TV singing contest.

A person close to the show says DeGeneres won't return for the 10th season, which gives "American Idol" two vacancies on its judging panel.

Fox has yet to announce a replacement for Simon Cowell, who left at the end of last season to start a new talent show for the network.

The person, who lacked authority to comment publicly on DeGeneres, spoke on condition of anonymity.

With "American Idol" facing ratings erosion, the comedian-talk show host's exit gives Fox the chance to make a fresh start with a revamped judging panel. The show returns in January.