Did American Idol Miss the Boat by Picking Ellen Degeneres to Judge?

Has anyone not heard yet? Ellen is in the house, or at least the studio, for American Idol season nine.

As if the sudden departure of saccharine-sweet American Idol judge Paula Abdul were not enough trauma for reality television fans, Fox TV unveiled an additional surprise for the upcoming season. Comedienne and talk show host Ellen Degeneres would join the American Idol judging panel.

During the summer of 2009, shortly after Paula Abdul's departure, the American Idol producers invited a series of celebrities to participate as judges. These folks participated on the American Idol panel (along with American Idol regulars Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Kara DioGuardi) for the regional preliminary auditions for the 2010 American Idol season. These guest judges have included Victoria Beckham, Mary J. Blige, Kristen Chenoweth, Neil Patrick Harris, Joe Jonas, Shania Twain and others.

Perhaps the summer judging stints were some sort of American Idol judging audition. Perhaps not.

Regardless, Fox chose Ellen. Fan pages erupted immediately with kudos and criticism, love and loathing.

Did Fox make the right choice, choosing Ellen Degeneres as the next American Idol judge?

What will Ellen's banter and very unique dancing skills bring to the judging table for American Idol season nine? Regardless of wit or wardrobe preferences, American Idol fans will tune in to see how Ellen fares.

Can Ellen keep up with the quips of host Ryan Seacrest? Will they share the same tailor?

Of course, season nine of American Idol will not start until January. In the meantime, let's look at some celebrities Fox might have chosen.

Based upon a most informal survey (three preteens, three teens, three young adults and three mature adults), we compiled a list of seven potential back-up judges for American Idol season nine. If Ellen bombs or bails for any reason, here's our short list, in alphabetical order:

Could Cher be an American Idol judge?

Despite her ongoing gig at Caesar's Palace in Las Vegas, might Cher have accepted the American Idol judge slot, if Fox had only asked? Perhaps Cher's price would be too high for Fox, but her wardrobe choices alone might have made Cher a fascinating choice for American Idol. Would Cher choose Bob Mackie designs?

Either way, Cher's fashion choices might be a lot more interesting on the American Idol stage set than the basic suits worn by Ellen Degeneres. Hey, someone has to share the spotlight with Randy Jackson's gaudy shirts.

Could Celine Dion be an American Idol judge?

Having concluded her long-running show at Caesar's Palace (where Cher now performs), Celine Dion has gone on a world tour. If American Idol asked her to join the judges' panel, Celine Dion might refuse.

Still, with her songs cropping up as perennial picks for contestant auditions, wouldn't it be fun to see her candid responses? If American Idol judge DioGuardi could trade melodic barbs with young wannabees, why not Celine Dion? Can you just see Celine critiquing some hopeful's performance of "The Power of Love" or "My Heart Will Go On"?

Could Gloria Estefan be an American Idol judge?

Although Gloria Estefan has publicly declared her plans to curtail her performance schedule, in favor of family time, her peppy attitude and musical skills make her a great candidate for the American Idol judges table. Besides, this Latin powerhouse can dance. Just think what Gloria Estefan might bring to the show.

Sometimes, it's true that words get in the way, especially for certain American Idol judges. Eventually, however, the rhythm is gonna get you, and Gloria Estefan could set the tone from the American Idol judges' table.

Could Janet Jackson be an American Idol judge?

The American Idol judging program could benefit from a little discipline. The judges' "save" in 2009 drew boons and barbs from viewers. Janet Jackson, despite her penchant for malfunctioning wardrobe items, might carry some pep and popularity to the American Idol show.

Once she starts, Janet Jackson can't be stopped. The diminutive dance and pop star has acting experience to boot. The Nutty Professor would surely offer his hearty endorsement of Janet Jackson for American Idol judge.

Could Reba McEntire be an American Idol judge?

Former rodeo queen and current reigning royalty in country music, Reba McEntire would surely boost interest in American Idol by joining the panel of judges. This sitcom star owns comic wit, as well as an amazing set of vocal pipes.

Even those who don't go for country music can be astounded at Reba McEntire's range of talent, as well as octaves. Besides, Reba McEntire is just a nice person. What American Idol prospect would not be encouraged to hear from Reba after an audition?

Could Bette Midler be an American Idol judge?

Bette Midler, known as The Divine Miss M, could bring acerbic humor and a whole lot more to American Idol as a judge. The life of the party and a sure crowd pleaser, Bette Midler would bring enthusiasm and sarcasm, both refreshing to American Idol viewers. Could Ryan Seacrest even keep up?

Best of all, Bette Midler is more than comfortable on the stage. She not only has a presence. She is a presence.

Could Shania Twain be an American Idol judge?

Country star Shania Twain tested her skills as an American Idol judge during the summer of 2009. This girl can sing, with both spunk and style, with fans crossing from country to pop.

Although Shania Twain's fans have waited several long years for another hit single, they might find some suitable cover tunes in her playbook for American Idol contenders as well.

Can you just hear the opening number? The finalists might start with "Man! I Feel Like an Idol" and move right on to "I'm Gonna Getcha Good," followed by "That Don't Impress Me Much."

Any other suggestions for anAmerican Idol judge?

Our multi-generational panel came up with many additional suggestions for the American Idol judging panel. Several names were tossed out, such as Beyonce, Kelly Clarkson, Sheryl Crow, Miley Cyrus, Lady Gaga, Alicia Keys, Cyndi Lauper, Leona Lewis, Madonna, Martina McBride, Jennifer Nettles, Pink, Rihanna, Britney Spears, Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood, Cece Winans and more.

These celebrities seem entirely too occupied with their own professional careers to spend a season or two trading banter with host Ryan Seacrest at the American Idol table with Simon Cowell, Kara DioGuardi and Randy Jackson.

Still, isn't it interesting that all of the celebrities named by our informal panel to judge American Idol (a singing contest) actually possess a certain amount of musical talent?