by Jeannette Rodgers

Created on: March 13, 2010   Last Updated: March 23, 2010

Who better than the lighthearted and sincere comic Ellen DeGeneres? She extends a cheerful heart and genuine attitude toward the contestants, judges and audience. She seems to share a realistic viewpoint for the average person that watches the program. She doesn't leave the contestant with a crushed spirit walking away as if they just lost out on life. She brings a light and fluffy air to the panel. Ellen offers a neutralizing quality in the midst of Randy, Kara and of course the ever so brutally honest Simon.

Who doesn't like comedy and who wouldn't welcome objectivity and realism when asked for an opinion?  At first, my feelings were mixed and I shunned the idea that a comedian with no experience in the talent industry would be a good judge. But, after thinking it over and watching her this season; it seems that Ellen offers the realistic and sensitive viewpoint that average Americans are feeling as they view and participate in the show.

Since Ellen does not have a music or dance background similar to Paula it allows for a average American viewpoint that doesn't weigh performances on specific criteria. She simply shares her take and thoughts on how they did without being harshly judgemental but keeps it real and funny at the same time. Shes a quick thinker like most comedians so I'm sure it helps in judging. Her comedic comments leave everyone lighthearted and laughing. She finds a funny way of sharing constructive criticism with the American Idol contestants.

American Idol judges can bring some harsh criticism and pseudo-complimentsto its contestants at times. While Paula was known for her positivity she also seemed very artificial and patronizing too. The young adults auditioning seem to handle all of it pretty well. Aside from the snide remarks about clothing, high pitch voices or lack of talent and over indulging remarks that the judges seem to give; everyone needs to laugh and embrace the moment of experience with a light heart as the contestants live out their dream of auditioning and possibly becoming an American Idol.

Keeping things light is always helpful and keeping things real helps more than constantly being bashed for your inadequacies in the business. Ellen offers constructive criticism that seems truly genuine. Sure, Paula Abdul is missed because of her passion that she so often expressed but then again; there seems to be less drama at the judges table too. These are kids striving to fulfill their dreams and they should be applauded for doing so. Paula was great at making the contestants grasp their boost of self esteem but it also seemed so fake and sometimes just patronizing which was quite ridiculous. Ellen truly brings balance to the panel of judges.

Ellen has truly lightened up the stress level and neutralized the bashing process. She gives her viewpoint subtly yet realistically and truly appears genuine and sincere. I am sure the contestants appreciate her view and comedic articulation.Shes sweet, honest and has a great way of sharing her perspective on their performances whether positive or negative.

A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones" (Proverbs 17:22). 

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