Paula Abdul has given her support to her replacement on American Idol - insisting Ellen Degeneres will be wildly funny as the new talent show judge.

Fans were shocked when Ellen DeGeneres was named the hit show's new star - because many had hoped Paula Abdul's departure from the programme would be temporary, as well as the comedienne-turned-talk show host having no musical background.But the Straight Up singer has called on fans to be supportive of the new recruit, who has signed a five-year deal with producers.A statement from the former Idol star reads, Ellen DeGeneres is wildly funny and talented in her own right. I wish her and the show only the best of luck.In a radio interview in Los Angeles on Thursday morning (10Sep09), DeGeneres revealed she wanted Abdul's blessing: I hope Paula's OK with it. I don't want anybody to think I took Paula's job away.