I guess Paula Abdul won’t be making a last-minute return after all…

Just yesterday, I was joking that Ellen DeGeneres was the newest dancer on So You Think You Can Dance. Turns out she will take on an entirely different role on FOX very soon.

It’s just been announced that the talk show host will become the next judge on American Idol. No—not a guest judge. The show’s

.

“I’m thrilled to be the new judge on American Idol,” Ellen said in a statement. ”I’ve watched since the beginning, and I’ve always been a huge fan. So getting this job is a dream come true, and think of all the money I’ll save from not having to text in my vote.”

Creator and executive producer Simon Fuller shared her enthusiasm. “I could not be more excited to have Ellen join the American Idol family. Ellen has been a fan of the show for many years, and her love of music and understanding of the American public will bring a unique human touch to our judging panel. I can’t wait for this next season to begin.”

Earlier this summer, DeGeneres also served as temporary judge on SYTYCD.