A Lesbian Judge America Can Support

Ellen DeGeneres has been named American Idol’s new fourth judge. The comedian replaces Paula Abdul, who left the show last month.

DeGeneres revealed the news to her studio audience during a taping of her talk show yesterday, and reassured them she’s not forsaking her day job in favor of hanging out with Simon Cowell & Co.

“This is so exciting for me,” she said. “We’ve been dealing with this for the last couple of weeks and I’ve been dying to tell everyone. It’s just been so hard to keep it a secret, and we just finally got the OK, and I’m so excited. It is going to be so much fun.”

DeGeneres is so excited to join American Idol.

“I have not missed one episode of that show,” she added. “I’ve watched every single thing.”

Guest judges for the audition phase of the competition include Victoria Beckham, Mary J. Blige, Shania Twain, Avril Lavigne, Neil Patrick Harris, Katy Perry, and Joe Jonas. The show comes back on the air in January.

And yep, I say this is a major coup for the GLBT community. I mean, a lesbian in such high a position of power? Change is in the air. Still.

Photo: PhotoBucket.com.

Update 1: Fans are split on the DeGeneres-on-American Idol matter.

And some still want Abdul back.

Aw, pobrecitos....

Update 2: Paula Abdul is wishing Ellen DeGeneres “only the best of luck” with her new gig, no matter what’s being said.

Atta sport!