Former "Idols" Weigh In On Ellen As New Judge

Updated 8:00 PM EDT, Fri, Sep 18, 2009

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Fox hopes that a greater risk will bring greater rewards.

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"American Idol" fans might not know what to expect when Ellen DeGeneres joins the judge's table in January, but four former contestants tell Access Hollywood they think the talk show host will shine.

"I love Ellen, she's like one of my favorite people I've ever met in the industry," Season 1 champ Kelly Clarkson told Access Hollywood Thursday night in New York at the "VH1 Divas" concert. "Ellen loves music, almost more than anyone I've ever met. She's funny! She's going to bring some humor to it."

VIEW THE PHOTOS: Jennifer Hudson, Jordin Sparks, Kelly Clarkson & More At 'VH1 Divas' 2009

Season 3 finalist and Oscar winner Jennifer Hudson said she was surprised to hear the news that Ellen would be joining the FOX reality series.

"I was like, 'Really! What?!'" Jennifer, who was also performing at the "VH1 Divas" event, told Access. "[But], I love Ellen!"

VIEW THE PHOTOS: Since She's Been Gone: Catching Up With Kelly Clarkson

Jordin Sparks, who won the crown during the show's sixth season, shared her fellow "Idol" alum's surprise at the VH1 celebration of women in music.

"I was actually very surprised at first, but then I thought about it, and I was like, 'Actually this is a great idea,'" Jordin told Access. "I know Ellen loves music. She will definitely represent the people who are sitting at home going, 'I don't know if I want to vote for this person or this person.' I know she'll get on Simon's butt, which is great. I'm excited for her!"

And it isn't only the "Idol" divas that have high hopes for the funny lady.

VIEW THE PHOTOS: Former 'American Idols'

Season 7 runner-up David Archuleta is also on Team Ellen.

"I love Ellen. She's so cool. She's so funny," David told Access Thursday night in LA at the 2009 ALMA Awards. "She's going to add something really interesting to the show that hasn't been there before because she's a comedian. She kind of livens things up a bit."

Fans and former "Idols" will have to wait until January 2010 to find out how Ellen does sitting next to Randy Jackson, Kara DioGuardi and Simon Cowell at the judge's table.

MORE ACCESS ON THESE TOPICS: Jennifer Hudson - Simon Cowell - Music - American Idol - Access Hollywood